pro bono

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for good" is a grammatically correct and acceptable phrase in written English.
The phrase is commonly used to indicate that something is permanent or lasting. For example, "He has quit his job for good this time."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Most have—for good reason.

The Economist

Back for good".

The New York Times

Looking for good news?

The New York Times

For good reason.

The New York Times

Well, for good reasons.

The New York Times

For Good.

The New York Times

She's up for good.

The New York Times - Sports

Probably for good reason.

The Economist

ahead for good.

The New York Times - Sports

Not for good, anyway.

The New Yorker

(for "good tune").

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "pro bono", ensure the context clearly indicates that professional services are being offered without payment. This is especially relevant in legal, medical, or consulting fields.

Common error

Avoid using "pro bono" to describe general volunteer work; it specifically applies to professional services offered for free. Describing unskilled volunteer labor as "pro bono" dilutes its meaning.

Linguistic Context

"Pro bono" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying the noun it precedes to indicate that the service is provided without charge. The phrase is used to describe activities performed for the public good, especially by professionals.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Pro bono", meaning "for the public good", is a term mainly used to describe professional services offered voluntarily and without charge. While Ludwig AI indicates that there are no direct examples in the provided data, it's crucial to remember its specific application in fields like law, medicine, and consulting. Alternatives like "for the public good" or "free of charge" can be used depending on the context, but ensure "pro bono" is reserved for skilled professional contributions. Avoid misusing the term for general volunteer work to maintain its accurate meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a public service

Emphasizes the altruistic nature of the action, aligning it with community contributions.

without remuneration

Highlights the lack of payment in a formal and legalistic manner.

in the service of others

Highlights the altruistic motivation, focusing on helping individuals or communities.

for the public good

Emphasizes the benefit to the community rather than the lack of payment.

for the benefit of the needy

Specifically targets the recipients of the service, emphasizing their disadvantaged status.

free of charge

Focuses on the absence of cost, applicable in various contexts beyond professional services.

at no cost

Similar to "free of charge", but with a slightly more formal tone.

for charitable purposes

Specifies the intention behind the service, linking it to philanthropic activities.

on a voluntary basis

Focuses on the willingness to provide services without expecting compensation.

as a donation

Frames the service as a contribution, akin to a monetary gift.

FAQs

What does "pro bono" specifically mean?

"Pro bono", short for "pro bono publico", means for the public good. It refers to professional work undertaken voluntarily and without charge, especially as a service to the community.

In what fields is "pro bono" work most common?

The term "pro bono" is most frequently used in legal, medical, and consulting fields, where professionals offer their expertise to those who cannot afford it.

What are some alternatives to saying "pro bono"?

You can use alternatives such as "for the public good", "free of charge", or "as a public service" depending on the context.

Is "pro bono" the same as volunteering?

While both involve unpaid work, "pro bono" specifically refers to professional services offered without charge, whereas volunteering can encompass a broader range of activities.