good for you

/ɡʊd fɔr juː/
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A comment that says something will benefit the person addressed, or that the speaker is being sarcastically dismissive.

Examples

  • That's good for you.
  • Oh, good for you, you managed to tie your shoes.
  • Another award? good for you, really.
  • You finally cleaned your room? good for you, finally.
  • You saved money by biking, good for you.

Similar words

beneficial
helpful
advantageous
sure
yeah right
positive
as if
great

Meanings

Express approval or encouragement

everyday
neutral
Used to tell someone that something will benefit them or that they have done something right

Examples

  • That's good for you.
  • I heard you got the promotion, good for you!
  • You finally ran the marathon, good for you.
  • You chose the salad over fries, good for you.
  • After all that studying, good for you.
  • You saved money by biking, good for you.

Similar words

Sarcastic remark of indifference

social
informal
Said in a mocking tone to show that the speaker is not impressed and thinks the listener is being self-congratulatory

Examples

  • Oh, good for you, you managed to tie your shoes.
  • You posted another selfie? good for you.
  • Wow, you stayed up late again, good for you.
  • You think that makes you special? good for you.
  • Another award? good for you, really.
  • You finally cleaned your room? good for you, finally.

Similar words

Etymology

A fixed expression built from ordinary words whose combination has become conventional.

FAQ

What does good for you mean?

It can either mean something will benefit someone or be used sarcastically to show indifference.

How is good for you used to express approval?

It is said to tell someone that something will be beneficial or that they have done something right.

When is good for you used sarcastically?

It is said in a mocking tone to show the speaker is not impressed and thinks the listener is being self-congratulatory.

Can good for you be used in a formal setting?

It is neutral in everyday use but feels informal when used sarcastically.

Is good for you considered polite?

It is polite when sincere, but can sound rude when meant sarcastically.

What are some alternatives to good for you when praising?

Words like beneficial, advantageous, helpful, or positive can be used.

What are some alternatives to good for you when being sarcastic?

Phrases such as yeah right, as if, sure, or great convey a similar mocking tone.

How can I tell if good for you is sincere or sarcastic?

Listen for a mocking tone or context; a sincere use sounds supportive, while a sarcastic one sounds dismissive.

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