   Goodness Gracious!In Appalachian and Southern speech, "Goodness gracious!" is an old-time exclamation of surprise, shock, or strong feeling. It’s a polite, church-friendly way to show emotion without cussin’. Hillbilly Dude Says...  Oh 'Goodness gracious! is still used - I use it myself. Sometimes followed by 'sakes alive.' Pronunciation[GOOD-niss GRAY-shuss] Meaning & Usage- Exclamation of surprise or amazement (interjection)
Mae:
They’re moving to town next week.
Earl:
Goodness gracious! I didn’t see that comin’.- Softened oath to express strong feeling (interjection)
Granny:
Goodness gracious! Look at this mess.other spellings: Good gracious! ★ This phrase has staying power because it’s gentle but expressive - perfect for church socials, family talk, or any setting where cussin’ is frowned upon. ★ OriginLikely from 18th- and 19th-century English "Goodness gracious me!" but preserved most strongly in Southern/Appalachian speech, where softened oaths became part of everyday family language. NotesStill widely used among older Southerners and in rural speech. It carries an old-time, genteel feel and is less common among younger speakers outside the South. Say It Like a SouthernerSaid plain: "good-niss gray-shuss." Often with drawn-out syllables for emphasis. | About We are a growing field guide to culture, speech, memory, and meaning - rooted in Appalachia, but wide as the world. Read more... |
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