/ɡɒʃ/

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Meaning

A gentle word you say when something surprises you. It is a softer way of saying God.

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Word origin

A softened form of God, changed so that the name of God is not said out loud. Words changed this way are called minced oaths.

Origin
English
Root
God

Examples

, !

People say gosh when they are pleasantly surprised.

, !

"Oh my gosh" is a softer form of "oh my God".

, .

Gosh is mild and polite, so it is safe to use anywhere.

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English · Free printables

gosh: worksheet, infographic and listicle

Free printable study downloads for the English word "gosh" (A gentle word you say when something surprises you. It is a softer way of saying God.): a worksheet with the answer key built in, an infographic, and a sentence listicle. Open any one to view, print or save.

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This word is taught in chapter 18, lesson 6: gosh, stare, football and 7 more words.