Usage of the phrase "for good"

[Nobody]

Hi,

The phrase 'for good' means 'forever'. Does that mean they are always interchangeable? E.g. 'He will be out of your life for good/forever. Thanks

[Alan]

Hi,

They both suggest for all time and for always. Possibly for good is more colloquial/conversational and for ever is more dramatic as in;

She decided to stop smoking for good.

Two of the most famous lovers in the world, Romeo and Juliet swore that they would love each other for ever.

Alan
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English as a Second Language
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[Nobody]

Hi Alan,

Thank you very much for the quick reply.

[Nobody]

Hi Alan,

I know 'always' can also mean 'forever'. Do we usually use the word 'always' in formal or informal situation?

Thanks

[Alan]

Hi,

Remember that 'always' on its own means 'every time' or 'without exception' and is the opposite of 'never' and is not restricted to any particular type of speech/writing.

Alan
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English as a Foreign Language
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[Nobody]

Hi Alan,

It's a little confusing to me about the usage of 'always'. Can't 'always' sometimes mean 'for ever'? Could we use 'always' instead of 'for ever' in your example as in

"Romeo and Juliet swore that they would always love each other."

Does 'always' mean the same as 'for ever' here?

Thank you for your reply

[Alan]

Yes, but as I said, 'for ever' is more dramatic.

Alan
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English as a Second Language
You can read my ESL story Passive Voice

[Nobody]

Thanks!