Example: We promised to stay friends for better or worse.
Definition
"For better or worse" is a phrase used to express commitment or acceptance of a situation regardless of whether its outcome is positive or negative. It often appears in promises or agreements to indicate steadfastness through both good and bad times.
The phrase "for better or worse" originates from traditional vows and expressions of loyalty, especially in marriage ceremonies. It reflects the idea of enduring circumstances regardless of their nature, dating back to at least the 16th century in English. Did you know it is often humorously used in everyday conversations to acknowledge unpredictable outcomes?
Learn to use this expression actively
"For better or worse" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (C1) - set 1", containing 130 commonly used expressions.
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