The idiom “God’s Own Country” is used to describe a place of almost incomparable beauty, suggesting that it’s a region so picturesque and idyllic that it could be worthy of the divine.
This phrase is often used to express a deep appreciation for the natural beauty and charm of a place, implying that it’s a paradise on Earth.
For instance, when someone refers to a place as “God’s Own Country,” they are emphasizing the unparalleled beauty and serenity of the location.
About the Author: Chris Drew has a PhD in Education. He has been a teacher in schools and universities and has taught English as a Second Language in Colombia. He is former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education.God’s Own Country Idiom Origins
The origin of this idiom is not definitively known, but it has been used to describe several places around the world, notably Kerala in India, New Zealand, and Yorkshire in England. The phrase has been used in literature and speeches to convey the divine beauty of a place.
Interestingly, this idiom was very popular in the last 1920s and into the 1930s, before losing popularity into the 60s and 70s. Today, Google’s data, which scans books throughout history, demonstrates that the idiom is now experiencing a resurgence:
Here’s a brief overview of its origin:
- Biblical References: The phrase is thought to have biblical roots, symbolizing a place of divine beauty and paradise. It represents an idealized vision of land blessed by the divine.
- Geographical Adoption: Different regions have adopted the phrase to promote tourism and express local pride. For example, Kerala in India is officially nicknamed “God’s Own Country” due to its lush landscapes and scenic beauty.
Today, referring to a place as “God’s Country” signifies the recognition of its extraordinary natural beauty, suggesting that it’s a paradise on Earth.
10 Examples in a Sentence
- “Visiting the serene landscapes of Kerala, truly feels like stepping into God’s Own Country.”
- “New Zealand’s breathtaking scenery makes it easy to understand why it’s often called God’s Own Country.”
- “Yorkshire, with its rolling hills and historic charm, is often referred to as God’s Own Country.”
- “The untouched beauty of this island makes it nothing short of God’s Own Country.”
- “With its pristine beaches and lush forests, it’s no wonder they call it God’s Own Country.”
- “The tranquil valleys and majestic mountains make this region God’s Own Country.”
- “Exploring the picturesque landscapes, I truly felt I was in God’s Own Country.”
- “The locals are proud to live in what they affectionately call God’s Own Country.”
- “Tourists flock to experience the divine beauty of God’s Own Country.”
- “The panoramic views and vibrant wildlife truly make this place God’s Own Country.”
Practice Questions Worksheet for Students
Question 1: If a place is referred to as God’s Own Country, what is it known for?
- a) Urban Development
- b) Historical Monuments
- c) Natural Beauty
- d) Industrialization
Question 2: Which of the following places is officially nicknamed “God’s Own Country”?
- a) Paris
- b) New York
- c) Kerala
- d) Tokyo
Question 3: Why do regions adopt the phrase “God’s Own Country”?
- a) To highlight crime rates
- b) To promote tourism
- c) To emphasize poverty
- d) To discuss politics
Question 4: What does referring to a place as “God’s Own Country” signify?
- a) Economic Prosperity
- b) Extraordinary Natural Beauty
- c) Technological Advancement
- d) Cultural Diversity
Similar Idioms
1. Paradise on Earth
Definition: A place of extreme beauty, delight, or happiness.
In a Sentence: “The serene island is truly a paradise on Earth.”
2. Heaven on Earth
Definition: A place or situation of great happiness and tranquility.
In a Sentence: “With its tranquil beaches and clear waters, it was heaven on Earth.”
3. Land of Milk and Honey
Definition: A place of abundance and prosperity.
In a Sentence: “The settlers found a land of milk and honey.”
4. Shangri-La
Definition: An imaginary paradise on Earth, especially a remote and exotic utopia.
In a Sentence: “The hidden valley was like Shangri-La.”
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In a Sentence: “The resort was like Elysium.”
6. Arcadia
Definition: A region or setting of rural pleasure and peacefulness.
In a Sentence: “The countryside was a real Arcadia.”
7. Utopia
Definition: An imagined place or state of things in which everything is perfect.
In a Sentence: “The society was a utopia.”
8. Eden
Definition: A place of pristine or abundant natural beauty.
In a Sentence: “The garden was a true Eden.”
9. Nirvana
Definition: A state of perfect happiness; an ideal or idyllic place.
In a Sentence: “The meditation retreat was like achieving Nirvana.”
10. Promised Land
Definition: A place or condition believed to promise final satisfaction or realization of hopes.
In a Sentence: “The team saw the championship as the promised land.”
11. Seventh Heaven
Definition: A state of extreme happiness or bliss.
In a Sentence: “Winning the lottery put me in seventh heaven.”
12. Camelot
Definition: A place associated with glittering romance and optimism.
In a Sentence: “The early days of the presidency were like Camelot.”
13. Xanadu
Definition: An idyllic, exotic, or luxurious place.
In a Sentence: “The resort was a true Xanadu.”
14. El Dorado
Definition: A place of reputed wealth; from the legendary city sought by early Spanish explorers.
In a Sentence: “The gold mine was like El Dorado.”
15. Valhalla
Definition: A place of honor, glory, or happiness.
In a Sentence: “The hall of fame was their Valhalla.”