informalcommon_idiom

UK//nəʊ ɡʊd diːd ɡəʊz ˌʌnˈpʌnɪʃt//US//noʊ ɡʊd did ɡoʊz ʌnˈpʌnɪʃt//

Meaning of No good deed goes unpunished

A saying that suggests helping others may lead to negative consequences.

In simple words: Doing something nice can lead to trouble.

No good deed goes unpunished in a sentence

  • I helped my friend, but now he blames me for his problems. They say no good deed goes unpunished.
  • After volunteering for the charity, I got stuck with all their leftover responsibilities. No good deed goes unpunished!
  • She thought helping her boss would lead to a promotion, but no good deed goes unpunished.
  • He rescued the stray dog, but the owner showed up and yelled at him. No good deed goes unpunished.
  • I gave my advice, and it backfired badly. I guess no good deed goes unpunished.

How to use No good deed goes unpunished

Use this phrase when a good action leads to unexpected negative results. It's often said humorously or cynically.

Grammar pattern

common_idiom

Memory hint

Think of a generous person who helps others but faces backlash. It's ironic!

Related words

Collocations with No good deed goes unpunished

  • good deed
  • go unpunished
  • helping others

Synonyms for No good deed goes unpunished

  • irony of kindness
  • unexpected consequences
  • cynical observation

Common mistakes with No good deed goes unpunished

  • Using the phrase in formal contexts.
  • Confusing the meaning to suggest good deeds are always rewarded.
  • Mispronouncing the phrase as a shorter version.

No good deed goes unpunished appears in

No good deed goes unpunished in other languages

More chunks like No good deed goes unpunished

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Frequently asked questions about No good deed goes unpunished

What does No good deed goes unpunished mean?

Doing something nice can lead to trouble.

What is the definition of No good deed goes unpunished?

A saying that suggests helping others may lead to negative consequences.

How do you use No good deed goes unpunished in a sentence?

I helped my friend, but now he blames me for his problems. They say no good deed goes unpunished.

Can you give another example of No good deed goes unpunished?

After volunteering for the charity, I got stuck with all their leftover responsibilities. No good deed goes unpunished!

What are synonyms for No good deed goes unpunished?

Common alternatives include irony of kindness, unexpected consequences, cynical observation.

What words go with No good deed goes unpunished?

It commonly pairs with good deed, go unpunished, helping others.

What are common mistakes when using No good deed goes unpunished?

Using the phrase in formal contexts. Confusing the meaning to suggest good deeds are always rewarded. Mispronouncing the phrase as a shorter version.

How do you pronounce No good deed goes unpunished?

US: //noʊ ɡʊd did ɡoʊz ʌnˈpʌnɪʃt//, UK: //nəʊ ɡʊd diːd ɡəʊz ˌʌnˈpʌnɪʃt//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is No good deed goes unpunished formal or informal?

"No good deed goes unpunished" is informal, so it fits casual conversation with friends and family.

When should I use No good deed goes unpunished?

Use this phrase when a good action leads to unexpected negative results. It's often said humorously or cynically.