What does “Goody two-shoes” mean?
"Goody two-shoes" means someone who always follows the rules and is considered to be overly virtuous or well-behaved.
What context can I use the in?
Example
She's such a goody two-shoes, always doing her homework on time.
Example
He never gets in trouble because he's a total goody two-shoes.
Example
I can't believe she reported us to the teacher, what a goody two-shoes
Is “Goody two-shoes” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Goody two-shoes” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Goody two-shoes” effectively in context?
You can use "Goody two-shoes" to describe someone who is excessively obedient or morally upright, often with a hint of sarcasm or disapproval. For example, if a friend always refuses to participate in any kind of mischief, you might say, 'Don't be such a goody two-shoes!'
- 1School
She's such a goody two-shoes, always doing her homework on time.
- 2Behavior
He never gets in trouble because he's a total goody two-shoes.
- 3Betrayal
I can't believe she reported us to the teacher, what a goody two-shoes.
Similar phrases to “Goody two-shoes”:
Straight-laced
Someone who is excessively proper or conventional
Example
He's so straight-laced, he won't even tell a white lie.
Someone who is excessively concerned with modesty or propriety
Example
He's such a prude, he won't even watch a movie with mild language.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Goody two-shoes” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Goody two-shoes" can be traced back to a children's book titled 'The History of Little Goody Two-Shoes' published in 1765. The main character, Margery Meanwell, is an orphan who becomes a well-behaved and virtuous girl despite her difficult circumstances. The phrase has since been used to describe someone who always follows the rules and is considered to be overly virtuous or well-behaved.
Is “Goody two-shoes” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Goody two-shoes" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. It is often used to playfully criticize or mock someone who is seen as excessively virtuous or well-behaved.
What tone does “Goody two-shoes” have?
"Goody two-shoes" conveys a tone of sarcasm or disapproval. It is typically used in a lighthearted or teasing manner to poke fun at someone's overly obedient or morally upright behavior.
Can “Goody two-shoes” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Goody two-shoes" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in casual conversations with friends or colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations or professional writing.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She's always such a goody two-shoes.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Don't be such a "goody two-shoes"!' to imply disapproval.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- holier-than-thou
- puritanical
- righteous
- goody-goody
- sanctimonious
Antonyms
- rebel
- troublemaker
- delinquent
- rule-breaker
- bad influence
