Definition of my goodness
Short definition: The phrase my goodness is used to react emotionally to something unexpected or impressive, showing surprise, concern, or amazement in a polite and natural way without sounding harsh or offensive.
Looking for a clear and natural explanation of the phrase my goodness? The phrase my goodness is commonly used as an emotional reaction in spoken English. People say it when they feel surprised, shocked, impressed, worried, or overwhelmed by something they just saw or heard. It sounds polite and mild compared to stronger expressions, which is why it appears in both casual and polite conversation. You will often hear it as a quick response rather than part of a long sentence. Below, each meaning is explained in a calm and natural way, with enough detail to feel human, clear, and natural.
Forms: my goodness
Related: wow interj., goodness interj., oh my interj.
Syllable: my good-ness
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(Interjection phrase) Used to express surprise shock or strong emotion in a polite and mild way.
My goodness is an expression people use when they suddenly react to something unexpected, impressive, worrying, or overwhelming, often as an immediate emotional response that sounds polite, non offensive, and suitable for many situations.
My goodness, that view from the top of the mountain was far more beautiful than she had ever imagined.He said my goodness when he realized how much work still needed to be finished before the deadline.My goodness, you scared me, she said while laughing and trying to calm her heartbeat.Synonyms: wow, oh my, goodness gracious, oh dear, my word, goodness, my gosh, heavens, dear me, well I never, oh wow, my stars
Antonyms: calm response, no reaction, indifference, emotional neutrality, silence, lack of surprise, unemotional reply, flat response, no emotion, blank reaction, emotional restraint, neutrality -
(Interjection phrase) Used to show concern sympathy or mild shock rather than excitement.
In softer situations, my goodness can express concern or sympathy, especially when reacting to bad news, mistakes, or stressful situations without sounding harsh or dramatic.
My goodness, that must have been very stressful for you to deal with alone.She said my goodness quietly after hearing about the accident.My goodness, I hope everything turns out alright for them in the end.Synonyms: oh dear, goodness, that’s unfortunate, how awful, I’m sorry to hear that, dear me, that’s worrying, oh no, that’s tough, how sad, poor thing, that’s rough
Antonyms: excitement, celebration, enthusiasm, joy, happiness, delight, cheerful reaction, positive surprise, thrill, pleasure, upbeat response, excitement response