Close enough for government work

[pne]

I just saw the phrase "close enough for government work" in a comment and was amused, since I hadn't heard it in a long time, but I occasionally use it in my thoughts when I'm talking to myself about something I've done: "Eh, close enough for government work" or "Good enough for gummint work".

I don't remember where I learned it, though I suspect it was from Elder Jeppesen in the MTC.

Does anyone else know this phrase? Does anyone else use it?

Comments

[lexabear.livejournal.com]

I've heard it; my mom uses it from time to time.

[crschmidt.livejournal.com]

I use it.

[darth-spacey.livejournal.com]

I *think* the original phrase was "close enough for jazz", but I might be putting the cart before the horse. I've seen and used both forms widely enough.

Bartleby.com is being frustratingly difficult on the subject, unfortunately.

[pleiades829.livejournal.com]

I know the phrase, though I don't use it.

[mendel.livejournal.com]

I used it regularly when I worked for the government, but not so much anymore.

[fweebles.livejournal.com]

Did it carry slightly condescending overtones at that point, or were you being ironic by using it in a literal fashion rather than a metaphorical one? :)

[mendel.livejournal.com]

Yes!

[elgrande.livejournal.com]

I love people answering with "yes" to questions containing "or". :P

[leora.livejournal.com]

I don't generally use it, as I don't think it represents a very fair perspective, but I am familiar with it.