Somebody had a good innings

usgb
phrase

The person lived a long life or had a long career, often used when someone has died or is retiring.

Uncle Ted passed away at the age of 90. He sure had a good innings.
Visual representation of "somebody had a good innings" - The person lived a long life or had a long career, often used when someone has died or is retiring.

Often appears as...

  • live a good innings
  • enjoy a good innings

Usage tips

Informal, Approving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "somebody had a good innings"
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Origin in Cricket

The phrase comes from cricket, where a good innings means a player scored well.

Illustration for Origin in Cricket
At 95 years old with a lot accomplished, he certainly had a good innings.
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Extended Metaphor

It's often used metaphorically to describe life or career duration, not just death or retirement.

Illustration for Extended Metaphor
After 50 years of teaching, Mrs. Brown had a good innings.
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Cultural Usage

Mostly used in the UK and Australia, might be less understood in other English-speaking countries.

Illustration for Cultural Usage
He had a good innings, said the British man about his American friend.
Visual representation of the word "Somebody had a good innings"

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