The phrase "makes good" consists of two common words in English, both of which have their own distinct pronunciation. "Makes" is pronounced /meɪks/, with the long 'a' sound represented by the symbol /eɪ/ and the 's' pronounced as /s/. Meanwhile, "good" is pronounced /ɡʊd/, with a short 'u' sound represented by the symbol /ʊ/ and the 'd' pronounced as /d/. When combined, these two words create an idiom that means to succeed or perform well.
Makes good is a phrase typically used to describe someone's ability to fulfill a promise, meet expectations, or prove oneself capable and reliable in a given situation. It conveys the notion of delivering on a commitment or successfully accomplishing a task or goal.
The phrase can also be used in the context of rectifying a mistake or compensating for a wrong. In this sense, it implies taking the necessary steps to make amends and make the situation right.
In a broader sense, "makes good" can refer to a person's overall success and achievements in life. It signifies that an individual has accomplished significant goals, overcome challenges, and prospered in various endeavors. Such a person has likely demonstrated persistence, determination, and effectiveness in their pursuits.
Furthermore, the phrase can be applied to products, services, or investments. When something "makes good," it indicates that it lives up to its claims, performs well, or proves to be a worthwhile investment. It suggests that the object in question fulfills its intended purpose and offers the expected benefits or value.
Overall, "makes good" describes the act of fulfilling obligations, achieving goals, remedying mistakes, or proving oneself capable, reliable, and successful in various aspects of life.
The phrase "makes good" has a different origin depending on the usage. Here are two possible etymologies:
1. "Makes good" as a verb phrase meaning to fulfill a promise or to carry out successfully can be traced back to Old English. The verb "make" comes from the Old English word "macian", meaning "to prepare" or "to construct". Over time, "makes good" came to mean "to perform or achieve something effectively", where "good" refers to being satisfactory or successful.
2. "Makes good" as an adjective phrase meaning reliable or trustworthy has a different origin. The word "good" in this sense is derived from Middle English. It originated from the Old English word "gōd", which referred to something beneficial, useful, or suitable. In this context, "makes good" signifies someone or something that proves to be dependable or worthy of trust.