English Idioms — Meaning in Context Choose the BEST meaning. Sentence: “He is leaving the country for good.”
Verbal Ability
Idioms and Phrases
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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Afor better prospects
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Bfor a good cause
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Cfor ever
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Dfor others’ good
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Efor health reasons
Answer
Correct Answer: for ever
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Some expressions use the word “good” idiomatically. “For good” in standard English means “permanently,” not “for a morally good reason.” This item checks whether you can distinguish idiomatic from literal readings of common phrases.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Phrase: “for good.”
- Context: emigrating or departing a country.
- We need the idiomatic, not moral, interpretation.
Concept / Approach:
In this fixed phrase, “for good” = “forever” or “for good.” The presence of travel/relocation context strengthens the permanence reading. Options referring to motives (good cause, others’ good, health) or aspirations (better prospects) misinterpret the idiom by focusing on “good” as virtue or benefit rather than duration.Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Recognize the fixed idiom: “for good” → permanently.2) Match with “for ever.”3) Rule out motive-based readings.Verification / Alternative check:
Substitution: “He is leaving the country permanently.” This equals “for ever.”Why Other Options Are Wrong:
for better prospects / good cause / others’ good / health reasons: These are reasons, not durations.Common Pitfalls:
Treating “good” as moral value rather than a time adverbial in this idiom.Final Answer:
for ever