The idiom "what's good for the goose is good for the gander" means that something that is beneficial or acceptable for one person is beneficial or acceptable for another, especially in terms of fairness or equal treatment.
In short:
The phrase "what's good for the goose is good for the gander" suggests that the same rule or treatment should apply equally to everyone.
What Does "What's Good for the Goose Is Good for the Gander" Mean?
This idiom means that a rule or standard that applies in a situation should apply to everyone equally, regardless of gender or characteristics. It highlights the need for equitable and fair treatment, where one group is not favored over others.
Let's explore its core meanings:
- It insists on equitable treatment, regardless of sex, status, or position.
- It is common in discussions of justice, equity, and fairness.
- It highlights inconsistencies in the way different individuals are treated in comparable situations.
Where Does "What's Good for the Goose Is Good for the Gander" Come From?
The exact origin of the phrase is somewhat unclear, as is the case with many proverbs. However, the first known written instance of a similar phrase comes from John Ray's collection of English proverbs in 1670:
"What’s sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander."
The current form of the phrase has been in use since at least the 19th century.
Historical Example
"The same reasoning applied to both cases: what was good for the goose was good for the gander. If they could not confer a pension for twenty years, because their charter would expire in fifteen, and it was therefore proposed to vote a lumping sum of money..."
- The Asiatic Journal and Monthly Register for British India and Its Dependencies, 1819
10 Examples of "What's Good for the Goose Is Good for the Gander" in Sentences
Here are some examples of using the idiom in sentences:
- When you inquire about special benefits for senior employees, remember that what's good for the goose is good for the gander, so ask about benefits for the junior staff, too.
- If my colleague is allowed to work from home, then, according to the principle of what's good for the goose is good for the gander, I should be allowed to do the same.
- After witnessing the equal treatment of all members in the team meeting, I rest my case that what's good for the goose is indeed good for the gander here.
- She insisted on paying for dinner, saying, "What's good for the goose is good for the gander."
- The company's decision to extend the work-from-home policy to all employees made my day. What's good for the goose is good for the gander.
- The idea that what's good for the goose is good for the gander does resonate with me, as it underlines the need for fairness in all aspects of life.
- If he is praised for his assertiveness, then what's good for the goose is good for the gander - she should be recognized for her assertiveness, too.
- If politicians can spend on lavish travel, then surely what's good for the goose is good for the gander - citizens should be entitled to basic amenities.
- The last straw was when he realized that what's good for the goose is good for the gander wasn't applicable at his workplace.
- You can rest assured that I firmly believe in the notion that what's good for the goose is good for the gander.
Examples of "What's Good for the Goose Is Good for the Gander" in Pop Culture
This phrase often appears in media related to social commentary and discussions of fairness and equality.
Let's look at some examples:
- "What's Good for the Goose" is a 1969 British comedy film directed by Menahem Golan and starring Norman Wisdom. The film is about a middle-aged banker who has a mid-life crisis and falls in love with a young hippie woman.
- "What's Good for the Goose Is Good for the Gander" is a song by Bobby Rush, released in 1985. The song is a bluesy, uptempo number about equality and fairness.
Other/Different Ways to Say "What's Good for the Goose Is Good for the Gander"
There are several alternative expressions that convey a similar meaning to "what's good for the goose is good for the gander."
Some of these include:
- Equal treatment for all
- One rule for everyone
- Fair's fair
- Same rights for all
- Uniform standards apply
- Treat people equally.
You can use these alternatives interchangeably depending on the context and the principle of equity involved.
10 Frequently Asked Questions About "What's Good for the Goose Is Good for the Gander":
- What does "what's good for the goose is good for the gander" mean?
"What's good for the goose is good for the gander" signifies that what is right or acceptable for one person should be the same for another person in a similar situation.
- How can I use "what's good for the goose is good for the gander" in a sentence?
You can use this phrase when advocating for fairness or equality. For instance, "If you can leave work early on Fridays, then what's good for the goose is good for the gander, and I should be able to as well."
- Where does the idiom "what's good for the goose is good for the gander" come from?
The phrase originated from an English proverb from at least the 17th century. It promotes the principle of equal treatment.
- Does the phrase imply gender equality?
While the phrase can be used to argue for gender equality, it's not exclusive to that. It applies to fairness and equal treatment in all areas.
- Can you use it formally or informally?
It can be used in both formal and informal situations, depending on the context.
- Can you use it in a professional context?
Yes, it can be used in professional settings to address issues of fairness and equality.
- Does the phrase imply reciprocity?
Not directly, but it stresses the idea of equal treatment or conditions.
- What is the connotation of the phrase?
The connotation of the phrase is generally positive as it promotes fairness and equality.
- Is it okay to use this phrase in academic writing?
Yes, it is acceptable to use this phrase in academic writing, provided it fits the context and tone of the piece.
- Is the phrase popular in modern English?
While it may not be as commonly used as some other idioms, it is still recognized and understood in modern English.
Final Thoughts About "What's Good for the Goose Is Good for the Gander"
The idiom "what's good for the goose is good for the gander" underscores the principle of equal treatment. It can be used in a variety of contexts to stress the importance of fairness and consistency.
Here's a quick recap:
- It refers to the idea of fairness, stating that what applies to one should apply to all in similar circumstances.
- The phrase has English roots, reflecting the universal principle of fairness.
- It is applicable in diverse contexts, underlining its adaptability and relevance.
In short, if it's good for the goose, it should be good for the gander, too. The phrase serves as a potent reminder of the importance of equity and fairness, principles that stand the test of time.
