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not give up the day job
{not} [give] up {one's} day job
to not give up the day job
01
to advise someone to continue with their current job instead of trying a new job that is likely to fail
Humorous
Idiom
Informal
What is the origin of the idiom "not give up the day job" and when to use it?
The origin of the idiom "not give up the day job" is unclear, but it has been in use since at least the mid-20th century. This phrase is used to suggest that someone's performance in a particular activity is not good enough to pursue as a career.
Example
He's trying to be a comedian, but he should not give up the day job just yet.
She didn't give up the day job though.
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