You can’t keep a good man down

usgb
phrasal verb

It's impossible to keep someone good or hardworking from succeeding, no matter how hard the situations are.

Despite losing his job, John was able to start his own company. You can't keep a good man down.
Visual representation of "you can’t keep a good man down" - It's impossible to keep someone good or hardworking from succeeding, no matter how hard the situations are.

Often appears as...

  • despite the obstacles
  • you can't keep a good man down

Usage tips

Approving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "you can’t keep a good man down"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Optimistic Tone

The phrase has an uplifting, hopeful tone, suggesting someone will overcome challenges.

Illustration for Optimistic Tone
He recovered from the injury faster than expected—you can't keep a good man down!
LampPro Tip 2/3

Figurative Speech

Understand it's not literal; it means someone with a strong spirit can't be stopped.

Illustration for Figurative Speech
After the flood, the community rebuilt the town. You can't keep a good man down.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Positive Character

The 'good man' is someone with positive attributes like resilience and integrity, not just any man.

Illustration for Positive Character
She bounced back from failure and excelled, proving you can't keep a good man down.
Visual representation of the word "You can’t keep a good man down"

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