got the goods

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "got the goods" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that someone has what is needed or required, often in a context of proving capability or possession of something valuable. Example: "When it comes to delivering results, she really got the goods to impress the clients."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

We got the goods.

The New Yorker

GEMBERLING: We got the goods?

The New Yorker

But he also got the goods.

Independent

Mama's finally got the goods.

The New York Times

He's got the goods to achieve that.

The Guardian - Sport

I think she's got the goods.

The New York Times

"We're confident we've got the goods," Mr. Shannon said.

The New York Times

A lot of hype for a guy who's definitely got the goods".

The New York Times - Sports

"It showed the defendants and the Russians that we've got the goods.

The New York Times

But he's got the goods – strong serve, good one-handed backhand, he's quick, moves well.

Independent

"I think if you've got the goods you can still sell them," Mr. Rubin said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "got the goods" to convey that someone or something has the necessary skills, qualities, or items to succeed or deliver what is expected. It's particularly effective in informal contexts to add a touch of personality.

Common error

Avoid using "got the goods" in formal writing, such as academic papers or business reports. Opt for more professional alternatives like "possesses the qualities" or "has the required skills" to maintain a suitable tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "got the goods" functions primarily as an idiom, indicating that someone or something possesses the necessary qualities, skills, or resources for a particular purpose. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is considered correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "got the goods" is a common idiom used to express that someone or something possesses the necessary qualities, skills, or resources for a particular purpose. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It's most frequently found in News & Media, making it suitable for informal to neutral contexts. While generally acceptable, it's best to avoid using "got the goods" in formal writing, where alternatives such as "possesses the qualities" or "has the required skills" would be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

has what it takes

This alternative emphasizes the possession of the necessary abilities or qualities for success.

delivers the goods

This focuses on the act of providing or fulfilling what is expected or promised.

possesses the qualities

This alternative highlights the inherent attributes or characteristics that someone possesses.

has the required skills

This emphasizes the specific abilities needed for a particular task or role.

is well-equipped

This suggests that someone or something is adequately prepared or furnished with what is needed.

is capable

This focuses on someone's ability to perform a task or fulfill a requirement.

brings the results

This alternative highlights the achievement of desired outcomes or accomplishments.

has the talent

This emphasizes innate aptitude or skill in a particular area.

owns the essentials

This focuses on having the fundamental elements or components required.

is suitably endowed

This suggests that someone is naturally equipped with the necessary attributes or qualities.

FAQs

How can I use "got the goods" in a sentence?

You can use "got the goods" to indicate that someone possesses the necessary skills or qualities. For example, "She really "has what it takes"; she's definitely "got the goods" to succeed in this role."

What does it mean when someone says "got the goods"?

It generally means that someone possesses what is needed, whether it's talent, resources, or information. It implies capability and readiness.

Which is a better alternative to "got the goods", "delivers the goods" or "is capable"?

Both are valid alternatives, but "delivers the goods" emphasizes the action of providing what's expected, while "is capable" highlights the inherent ability.

Is "got the goods" appropriate for formal writing?

No, "got the goods" is generally considered informal. For formal contexts, use alternatives like "possesses the qualities" or "has the required skills".