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be for the best

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be for the best

To be a positive occurrence (especially when it initially seems bad or problematic). This is usually an expression of hope or insight after something has gone awry. I had to go home and change after spilling coffee on myself, but it was for the best because I avoided a major traffic jam. I was really disappointed to get rejected from my first-choice school, but I think it will be for the best because now I won't be so far from home.

be for the best

if an action is for the best, it seems unpleasant now but it will improve a situation in the future I know it's hard to end a long-term relationship, but in this case it's for the best.