what's good for the goose is good for the gander

idiom

Definition of what's good for the goose is good for the gander

—used to say that one person or situation should be treated the same way that another person or situation is treated

If he can go out with his friends at night, then she should be able to, too. What's good for the goose is good for the gander.

Word by Word Definitions

what play

used as an interrogative expressing inquiry about the identity, nature, or value of an object or matter
often used to ask for repetition of an utterance or part of an utterance not properly heard or understood
: who

: why
: in what respect : how

used as an interrogative expressing inquiry about the identity, nature, or value of a person, object, or matter
: how remarkable or striking for good or bad qualities
: whatever

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good play

: of a favorable character or tendency
: bountiful, fertile
: handsome, attractive

: something that is good
: something conforming to the moral order of the universe
: praiseworthy character : goodness

: well
used as an intensive

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goose play

: any of numerous large waterfowl (family Anatidae) that are intermediate between the swans and ducks and have long necks, feathered lores, and reticulate tarsi
: a female goose as distinguished from a gander
: simpleton, dolt

: to poke between the buttocks with an upward thrust
: to increase the activity, speed, power, intensity, or amount of : spur

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gander play

: an adult male goose
: simpleton

: look, glance

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