What is the origin of phrase good time was had by

The phrase "a good time was had by all" is a passive voice construction, meaning the subject of the sentence is the receiver of the action, rather than the performer.

Here's a breakdown:

* "Good time" is the object of the sentence, representing the activity or event enjoyed.

* "Was had" is the passive verb phrase, indicating that the time was experienced, not created.

* "By all" is the prepositional phrase, specifying who experienced the good time.

While the origin of this exact phrase is unclear, it's likely derived from the common practice of using passive voice to express a sense of shared experience or collective enjoyment.

Here are some possible origins:

* Formal events: Passive voice was historically used in formal announcements and reports, where the focus was on the event itself rather than the individuals involved. This might explain why the phrase sounds a bit stuffy and outdated.

* Social gatherings: It's likely that this phrase arose naturally in conversation as people discussed shared experiences. The passive voice allowed for a concise and general statement, emphasizing the enjoyment rather than the details of who did what.

In summary: The origin of "a good time was had by all" likely lies in the combination of the passive voice's historical use in formal language and its natural application in describing shared experiences. It's a phrase that embodies a sense of collective enjoyment and unity, even if it might sound a bit outdated today.