do well by doing good
To achieve social acceptance or financial success as a result of behaving in a benevolent or charitable manner.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“They do well by doing good in their local community.”
“You do well by doing good when you help your neighbors.”
“The honest shopkeeper manages to do well by doing good.”
“The company grew its profits significantly because it chose to do well by doing good for the environment.”
“The small bakery attracts many loyal customers because they do well by doing good through their daily bread donations to the homeless shelter.”
“Investors often choose this fund because it aims to do well by doing good, focusing only on companies that treat their workers fairly.”
“The young doctor realized she could do well by doing good after opening a clinic that offers affordable care to low-income families.”
“By prioritizing sustainable practices and ethical labor, the entrepreneur proved that a business can truly do well by doing good.”
first recorded 20th c.
The origin is unknown; in use since the mid-20th century. Although the phrase is sometimes attributed to Benjamin Franklin, the earliest documented usage is from Tom Lehrer's 1953 novelty song "The Old Dope Peddler."
- 01
a good deal
Very much; to a great extent; a lot; lots.
- 02
all good
It's all good.
- 03
all very well
All right to a certain extent, but problematic beyond that, or for other people.
- 04
as well
In addition; also.
- 05
bill of goods
A set of misleading or deceptive claims.
- 06
but good
To a high degree; very thoroughly; in a most definite manner.
- 07
come from a good place
To be motivated by decency, kindness, or good intentions.
- 08
come up with the goods
To produce what was expected or required.
Last updated August 10, 2026