A synonym for goody two shoes is a word or phrase used to describe someone who is overly virtuous, morally upright, or excessively well-behaved, often to the annoyance of others. These synonyms can vary slightly in tone, ranging from neutral to mildly mocking or sarcastic.
Top Synonyms for Goody Two Shoes
| Synonym | Meaning | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Teacher’s pet | Someone who seeks approval from authority by being overly obedient | Often used in school or workplace settings |
| Do-gooder | A person who tries to help others in a way that may seem naive or intrusive | Can be used sincerely or sarcastically |
| Brown-noser | Someone who flatters authority figures excessively | Usually has a negative connotation |
| Prude | A person who is overly concerned with propriety or modesty | Common in moral or behavioral contexts |
| Pollyanna | An excessively or blindly optimistic person | Often implies unrealistic positivity |
| Miss Perfect / Mr. Perfect | Someone who seems or tries to be flawless in behavior | Used in both admiration and sarcasm |
| Saint | Someone regarded as exceptionally virtuous | Can be used sarcastically |
When to Use These Synonyms
Each synonym for “goody two shoes” has a slightly different context. For example:
- Use “teacher’s pet” when referring to someone seeking approval in structured environments.
- Use “do-gooder” to describe someone whose moral acts might seem self-serving or irritating.
- Use “brown-noser” when the focus is on excessive flattery.
- Use “Pollyanna” when the person is overly optimistic rather than morally upright.
Tips for Using These Synonyms
- Consider the tone: Some synonyms are more playful, others more critical.
- Know your audience: What might be humorous in one context could be offensive in another.
- Understand the nuance: Not all synonyms are exact matches; choose based on the intent behind your description.
FAQ
What does “goody two shoes” mean?
“Goody two shoes” refers to someone who is overly virtuous or well-behaved, often in a way that is seen as annoying or self-righteous.
Is “goody two shoes” always used negatively?
Not always, but it typically has a negative or mocking tone, implying the person is too eager to follow rules or seek approval.
Can “Pollyanna” be a synonym for “goody two shoes”?
Yes, in some contexts. While “Pollyanna” leans more toward excessive optimism, it can imply unrealistic virtue or goodness similar to a goody two shoes.
What’s a more neutral synonym for “goody two shoes”?
Terms like “rule-follower” or “model student” can describe similar behavior without the negative connotation.
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