I'm good = I don't want any more (?)

Question

Hello. I've heard this use of "I'm good" when someone doesn't want another drink. I found it weird, as if it were ungrammatical. Is it only used in this way? Where does it come from?

I've never heard it, in 35 years, in England. I'm OK with that. . - annierats, Dec 14, 2012

We say it all the time. - rac1, Dec 14, 2012

It's a North American thing I believe - PumpkinCalabaza, Dec 14, 2012

Good question comunacho! - pmikan-pam, Dec 14, 2012

Answer 1

Very common phrase used all over English speaking North America.

I'm sure it's just a short hand for "No, things are good as they stand" Usually used when you don't need anymore (coffee, water, assistance etc)

Thanks rog. - annierats, Dec 14, 2012

Varsågod! - rogspax, Dec 14, 2012

Answer 2

I hear this all the time. It means something like "No, thanks" or "I don't need anything else", etc. I would venture to say that might be used a bit like "Está bien" in the sense of a a polite refusal...Phrases like "I'm fine" and "It's ok" are often used in a similar idiomatic way.

I'm fine and It's okay are excellent examples. - gringojrf, Dec 14, 2012

Answer 3

Also with:

"Need held with your bike?"

"Nah, I'm good."

No: I'm OK, thanks! - annierats, Dec 14, 2012

Answer 4

Unfortuntely, Usage trumps Grammar pretty much all the time. Just take a look at the evolution of dictionaries and other books on english or spanish.

Otherwise, languages would be a lot easier to learn (and maybe even a lot less interesting).

Tim

Answer 5

"I´m Good" is a common slang term in the US. This is a shorter version of the previous generations "I´m good to go"

Two I have herd with the younger generation in CR are "con pra" for "con permiso" and "porfa" for "por favor"

Answer 6

I grew up in Michigan saying this. But my aunt from Germany always gives me a hard time when I use it.

I applaud your aunt, as a Swede, it has never occured to me to use such a horribly ungrammatical sentence either. - annierats, Dec 14, 2012

Answer 7

Yup it's common in Ontario.