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For goodness' sakes

prep_phrase

Definitions

Prep_phrase
  1. 1
    Used to express frustration, exasperation, annoyance. euphemistic, idiomatic

    "'For goodness' sakes, Father,' cried Emma, the bright tears in her eyes drying because her eyeballs were so hot and angry, 'for goodness' sakes, Father, the idea of acting - so - horrid."

  2. 2
    Used for emphasis. euphemistic, idiomatic

    "Learn to play a reed instrument; do not borrow money; do not lend money; do not make money — [laughter] — and for goodness sakes, do not lose money."

  3. 3
    Used to express surprise or amazement. euphemistic, idiomatic

    "For goodness' sakes!" Fannie broke out in surprise when she saw Molly there. "For goodness' sakes! Where you been hiding these days?""

Etymology

A euphemistic replacement of "God" in for God's sake.

See also for "for goodness' sakes"

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