"in good stead"

[Baubau]

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #509 "English Slang Idioms (251)", question 10

"Your account with us has remained in good ......... since you opened it with us. We are going to grant your request for a higher credit limit," the banker told John.

(a) health
(b) appearance
(c) stead
(d) smell

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #509 "English Slang Idioms (251)", answer 10

"Your account with us has remained in good stead since you opened it with us. We are going to grant your request for a higher credit limit," the banker told John.

Correct answer: (c) stead

Your answer was: incorrect
"Your account with us has remained in good health since you opened it with us. We are going to grant your request for a higher credit limit," the banker told John.
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From what I've learned from the dictionaries, "in good stead" means useful, helpful (sometime in the future). Isn't "in good standing" the correct expression here?

Thanks.

[Alan]

Hi,

'In good stead' suggests 'in a stable and firm state'.

Alan
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English as a Second Language
You can read my ESL story Present Simple