good sport

USAGE SUMMARY

"good sport" is a correct phrase in written English.
It is typically used to acknowledge someone's attitude of generosity or good nature in a difficult or competitive situation. For example, "He'd lost the game, but he remained a good sport about it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"You're a right good sport".

The New Yorker

A good sport.

The New York Times - Sports

It's good sport.

The New York Times

It was just good sport.

The Guardian

Still, Saban proved a good sport.

The New York Times

But Pinto is ever the good sport.

The New York Times

"She was a very good sport.

The New York Times

Ann was a very good sport".

The New York Times - Sports

Washington, ever the good sport, accepted.

The New York Times

In conversation he is a good sport.

The New York Times - Style

He was a good sport about it.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "good sport" to describe someone who handles losses or difficult situations with grace and a positive attitude. It's often used to commend someone's ability to remain cheerful and cooperative even when things don't go their way.

Common error

Avoid using "good sport" sarcastically or in situations where genuine sportsmanship is lacking. It can come across as insincere or mocking if the person being described is clearly upset or behaving poorly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "good sport" functions as a noun phrase typically used as a compliment or description. It indicates that someone is exhibiting positive behavior, especially in situations involving competition or adversity. As Ludwig highlights, it acknowledges someone's generosity and good nature.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

14%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Science

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "good sport" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe someone who handles difficult situations or losses with grace and a positive attitude. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase acknowledges an individual's generosity and good nature. The phrase is most frequently used in News & Media. It's important to use "good sport" in appropriate contexts, avoiding sarcasm or situations where the described person is visibly upset. Alternatives include "gracious loser" or "fair player", depending on the nuance you wish to convey. Remember that while "good sport" refers to an individual's behavior, "good sportsmanship" describes the overall ethical climate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gracious loser

Focuses specifically on accepting defeat with grace.

takes it well

Focuses on the ability to accept a negative outcome without complaint.

fair player

Highlights adherence to rules and ethical conduct.

good-natured

Highlights someone's pleasant and agreeable disposition.

handles it gracefully

Highlights the elegance and composure in dealing with a difficult situation.

cheerful even in defeat

This phrase emphasizes maintaining a positive disposition despite losing.

plays fair

Stresses the importance of honesty and integrity in competitive situations.

good game

Emphasizes the enjoyment and positive experience of the activity, regardless of the outcome.

remains optimistic

Focuses on maintaining a positive outlook, even when things don't go as planned.

positive attitude

General term referring to an optimistic and constructive outlook.

FAQs

How can I use "good sport" in a sentence?

You can use "good sport" to describe someone who handles a loss or difficult situation with grace and a positive attitude. For example, "Even though she lost the game, she was a "good sport" and congratulated the winner."

What are some alternative phrases for "good sport"?

Alternatives include phrases like "gracious loser", "fair player", or someone who "takes it well", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to call someone a "good sport" if they are visibly upset?

Using "good sport" sarcastically or when someone is clearly upset can be insensitive. It's best used when someone genuinely displays positive behavior despite a negative outcome.

What's the difference between "good sport" and "good sportsmanship"?

"Good sport" typically refers to an individual's behavior, while "good sportsmanship" describes the overall quality of fair and ethical behavior in a competitive environment. One is a characteristic, the other is the general conduct.