have something going for sb

/hav sˈʌmθɪŋ ɡˌəʊɪŋ fɔːɹ ˌɛsbˈiː/

/hæv sˈʌmθɪŋ ɡˌoʊɪŋ fɔːɹ ˌɛsbˈiː/

to have something going for sb

to possess positive qualities or advantages that increase the likelihood of success or achievement in a particular area or situation

to [have] something going for {sb} definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "have something going for someone" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "have something going for someone" is believed to have emerged in the mid-20th century in American English. The phrase is likely an extension of the use of the verb "to go" to mean "to succeed" or "to progress." It implies the idea that certain qualities or circumstances can work in someone's favor and help them succeed, even if they may not have all the qualifications or advantages that others possess.

Examples

1. Well, cruise lines did have one thing going for them.

2. Mother Mandelbaum had a few things going for her, and one of those things was her experience not just buying and selling, but haggling on prices.

3. They do have that sort of monstrous thing going for them.

4. With today's third gen rises though, AMD has two big things going for them.

Nearby words

have eyes for

have enough of

have designs on

have butterflies in stomach