for good cause

USAGE SUMMARY

"for good cause" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to explain the reason or justification behind a decision, action, or behavior. For example: - The judge dismissed the case for good cause, stating that there was not enough evidence to continue. - I left my job for good cause – the toxic work environment was affecting my mental health. - The charity organization raises money for good cause – to provide support for families in need. - We must take action for good cause – to protect the environment for future generations. - The principal expelled the student for good cause – for repeatedly breaking school rules.

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

And for good cause.

The Washington Post

The judge may extend this period for good cause shown.

Cornell University

Such approval will be granted only for good cause shown.

Stanford University

to discharge or otherwise discipline an individual for good cause.

Cornell University

The FDIC may extend this time for good cause.

Cornell University

Medicare is extremely popular, and for good cause.

The New York Times

All hearings will be closed, unless the ALJ for good cause shown determines otherwise.

Cornell University

TSA may grant itself an extension of time for good cause.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

And keep the £100m for good causes.

Independent

The profits are spent for good causes.

Yale University

He does charity work for good causes.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "for good cause" in legal or formal documents, ensure the 'good cause' is explicitly defined to avoid ambiguity and potential disputes.

Common error

Avoid using "for good cause" in casual conversation; it can sound overly formal or legalistic. Opt for simpler alternatives like "with a good reason" or "because it's important" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for good cause" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the reason or justification behind an action. Ludwig AI confirms this usage with numerous examples where the phrase clarifies the motive or grounds for a decision.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

50%

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "for good cause" is a prepositional phrase used to justify or explain an action, indicating that there is a valid and legitimate reason behind it. It is most frequently found in academic and news contexts, and its register is generally formal. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage. When using "for good cause", it's important to ensure that the 'good cause' is well-defined, especially in legal or formal settings, and to avoid overuse in casual conversation where it may sound stilted.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with good reason

Emphasizes the reasonableness and validity of the cause.

with sufficient justification

Highlights the adequacy of the reason provided.

for a valid reason

Focuses on the legitimacy and soundness of the rationale.

on legitimate grounds

Stresses the lawfulness and acceptability of the basis.

due to justifiable circumstances

Highlights that specific conditions validate the reason.

given a valid motive

Focuses on having an acceptable and understandable intent.

because of a legitimate basis

Similar to 'on legitimate grounds' but focuses on the foundational aspect.

for a warranted purpose

Suggests the cause is authorized and justified.

with a proper rationale

Emphasizes that the reason is coherent and appropriate.

under extenuating circumstances

Highlights external conditions that lessen the culpability or impact.

FAQs

How can I use "for good cause" in a sentence?

Use "for good cause" to indicate a legitimate or justifiable reason for an action. For instance, "The employee was terminated "for good cause" after repeated violations of company policy."

What's the difference between ""for good cause"" and "for no reason"?

"For good cause" implies a valid and justifiable reason, while "for no reason" suggests there is no apparent or legitimate reason for the action.

Are there situations where using "for good cause" might be inappropriate?

Yes, using "for good cause" might be inappropriate in informal settings where it can sound overly formal or legalistic. Simpler alternatives might be more suitable.

What are some alternative phrases to ""for good cause""?

Alternatives include "with good reason", "with sufficient justification", or "for a valid reason depending on the context and desired level of formality.