For good

‘For good’ is a bit of a tricky term. While you would think it had something to do with ‘good’ as opposed to evil, usually, it means ‘forever’ or ‘permanently’, However, ‘for good’ can also literally mean ‘for the purpose of good.’

A Google search on November 2, perfectly illustrates that different uses of “for good.”

One of the sites that appeared was “Network for Good”, which is “a nonprofit organization dedicated to using the Web to help people get more involved in their communities.” Obviously, this ‘for good’ has to do with doing good.

On the same results page, “Weight Loss for Good” was found. As opposed to the last use of the term, this site is obviously about losing weight permanently.

Here are some examples of ‘for good’ used with the meaning of ‘forever’ or ‘permanently’.

I’ve lost my wallet for good. = I’ve lost my wallet and I will never find it.

Jackie: I heard your cousin from Turkey is coming to Halifax and staying with you.
Glen: Uh-uh. Actually, he’s got a really well paying job and his girlfriend lives here.
Jackie: He might live here for good.
Glen: Who knows?

Bill: Have you ever lost something valuable? Did you get it back, or is it gone for good?
Neve: Once I had some very expensive sunglasses, when I took a trip to Vancouver, I lost them while swimming. There was no way to find them. They are gone for good.

When I lost my purse with my credit cards, ID and 500 bucks, I thought they were gone for good. Fortunately, this little church lady found them and returned them to me.

Ask your partner these questions.

What is something that you’ve lost for good?

Have you ever thought you lost something for good, only to have it returned to you? What did you lose? Where?

Are there any habits that you’ve quit for good?