The idiom “(as) good as done” means that something is practically finished or almost completed. It suggests that the task or action is so close to being finished that it can be considered essentially done, even if there’s a small part left to finish. This phrase is often used to emphasize that the completion is certain or imminent.
Meaning of “(as) good as done”
When someone says something is “as good as done”, it implies that the work or task will soon be completed, and there are no doubts about its finality. The phrase conveys a sense of certainty, indicating that only a small amount of work or time remains before it’s fully completed. It’s often used to show confidence in the outcome.
Examples of “(as) good as done” in sentences
Indicating that something is almost finished:
“This job is as good as done. It’ll just take another second to wrap things up.”
“The report is as good as done. I just need to proofread it, and we’re all set.”
Describing a task that is essentially finished or inevitable:
“Yes, sir, if you hire me to paint your house, it’s as good as painted. I’ll get started right away.”
“When I hand my secretary a letter to be typed, I know that it’s as good as typed right then and there.”
Using past participles for different tasks:
“The documents are as good as typed, all I need is to add a final touch.”
“Once the food is in the oven, it’s as good as cooked. It’s just a matter of waiting.”
Origins of the idiom
The expression “as good as done” likely comes from the idea that something is so close to completion that it might as well be considered finished, even though a tiny part remains. The flexibility of the idiom allows other past participles, like “cooked,” “dead,” “finished,” or “painted,” to replace “done” depending on the context, further emphasizing the completion of a task.
Similar expressions
If you’re looking for other ways to convey that something is almost finished or inevitable, here are some similar idioms:
- “As good as finished”
- “In the bag”
- “Home free”
- “A done deal”
How to use “(as) good as done” in conversations
Here’s how to use this idiom in everyday speech:
When a task is almost finished but needs a small amount of time or effort:
“Don’t worry, the project is as good as done. I’ll have it ready by tomorrow.”
To express certainty that something will happen:
“The contract is signed. The deal is as good as done.”
In the context of a work task or responsibility:
“Once I send this email, the presentation is as good as finished.”
Conclusion
The idiom “(as) good as done” is a useful expression to convey that something is nearly complete or guaranteed to happen. Whether you’re talking about a task at work, a personal project, or an event, this idiom emphasizes that there’s little left to do, and completion is practically assured.
