Pronunciation: [bˌʌt ɡˈʊd] (IPA) 
The common phrase "but good" is spelled differently than it may sound phonetically. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word would be written as /bʌt ɡʊd/. The "u" in "but" is pronounced like an "uh" as in "up", rather than as an "oo" sound. The "oo" sound is replaced by the short "u" when the suffix "-ut" is added to a word ending in a voiceless consonant, like "t". This explains the spelling of "but" in this context.
The phrase "but good" is an idiomatic expression used to intensify the meaning of a preceding action or trait. It is predominantly used in colloquial American English to emphasize the magnitude or effectiveness of something.
In this context, "but good" serves as an idiomatic adverbial phrase that heightens the extent or impact of an action, usually implying a thorough or profound execution. It implies that the action or quality being referred to is done or exhibited to a significant degree or extent. The phrase may connote a sense of accomplishment, superiority, or superiority in a given situation.
For example, if someone tells a story that ends in a particularly dramatic or surprising way, a listener might respond by saying, "You got them but good!" This response signifies that the storyteller successfully amused, shocked, or deceived their audience in an impressive or satisfying manner.
Another example could be when someone exclaims, "Cleaned the house but good!" after spending an ample amount of time and effort in tidying up. The phrase implies that they not only fulfilled the task but did so in a thorough, meticulous, or exhaustive manner.
Overall, "but good" enhances the intensity, completeness, and impact of an action, showcasing its profound effects or successful execution. Its idiomatic usage enables individuals to express a strong impression, achievement, or outcome that surpasses average or modest criteria.
The phrase "but good" is an idiomatic expression in English, often used to intensify or strengthen a statement. It is believed to have originated in the United States in the late 19th century. The etymology of the phrase is not completely clear, but there are a few theories regarding its origin.
One theory suggests that "but good" could have derived from the word "boot" meaning "remedy" or "remedy thoroughly". In this sense, "but" would simply mean "except" or "without". So, "but good" would imply "without remedy" or "without exception", emphasizing the completeness or thoroughness of something.
Another theory suggests that "but good" originated as a regional dialectal expression, possibly influenced by African American Vernacular English (AAVE).
