The daily crossword often presents us with those delightfully ambiguous phrases, the ones that feel familiar yet elusive until that perfect word clicks into place. One such phrase that frequently appears as a compelling crossword clue is “Be in one’s good ___.” It’s a classic for a reason, inviting solvers to delve beyond the surface and consider the nuances of human relationships and social standing.
This particular idiom describes a state of being regarded favorably or with approval by someone. When you’re in someone’s good [blank for the answer], it means you’ve earned their respect, their positive consideration, or perhaps even their affection. It’s about being held in high esteem, enjoying a position of preference, or simply being well-liked. This kind of nuanced understanding is precisely what makes solving crosswords so rewarding, especially when tackling an idiomatic phrase like this one.
Think about the implications: if you are in someone’s good [blank], doors might open for you. Your suggestions might be heard more readily, your presence welcomed. Conversely, to fall out of someone’s good [blank] can mean facing disapproval, being overlooked, or experiencing a strained relationship. The emotional weight attached to this phrase makes it a potent descriptor of social dynamics, a true test for any crossword puzzle enthusiast.
Tracing the origins of such phrases can often illuminate their current meaning and usage. While the precise etymology of every common idiom is sometimes debated, the concept of being held in high esteem or favor has deep roots in many cultures and languages. Historically, gaining the approval of someone in power, or even just a valued peer, was crucial for social and economic advancement. This age-old human desire for acceptance and positive regard is perfectly encapsulated in our featured crossword clue.
When approaching “Be in one’s good ___” in a crossword puzzle, consider the context provided by other intersecting words. Does the puzzle lean towards formal language or something more colloquial? Is the overall theme hinting at social standing, favor, or perhaps a more personal connection? These environmental clues are invaluable. Sometimes, a cryptic crossword clue might twist the phrase, requiring an even deeper dive into its metaphorical landscape.
Many a seasoned solver will tell you that idioms are often among the trickiest components of a daily crossword. They don’t always translate literally, and their meaning relies on cultural understanding. The beauty of a crossword clue like “Be in one’s good ___” is that it taps into this shared linguistic intuition. It asks you to access that part of your brain that understands implied meaning and social subtleties.
For those tackling their daily crossword, or perhaps just getting started with the captivating world of crossword puzzles, remember to look beyond the obvious. If this clue appears, think about words associated with favor, approval, and positive regard. What is that intangible quality or state that makes one person look kindly upon another? What is the
thing
that you are ‘in’ when you have someone’s favorable disposition?
Mastering such idiomatic crossword clues enhances not only your puzzle-solving skills but also your appreciation for the richness of language itself. It’s a reminder that words, especially when combined into phrases, carry a weight of history and human experience. So next time you encounter “Be in one’s good ___” in your crossword, pause, ponder, and let the nuances guide you to that satisfying moment of discovery.
Available Answers:
GRACES.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 1114-25 NY Times Crossword 14 Nov 25, Friday