LanGeekLanGeek Dictionary

make (both) ends meet

British pronunciation/mˌeɪk bˈəʊθ ˈɛndz mˈiːt/
American pronunciation/mˌeɪk bˈoʊθ ˈɛndz mˈiːt/
to make (both) ends meet
[PHRASE]
1

to make enough money to pay for one's basic needs

Add to leitnerwordlist
Add to your word listwordlist
to [make] (both|) ends meet definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "make ends meet" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "make ends meet" is uncertain, but it dates back to at least the 17th century and is thought to have originated from accounting or financial terminology. It is used to describe the act of managing one's finances in a way that allows them to cover all their expenses with their available income, without going into debt or experiencing financial hardship.

Examples
1After losing his job, he began to feel the pinch, struggling to pay bills and make ends meet.
2After losing his job and struggling to make ends meet, John realized that a moneyless man goes fast through the market, and he began to live a simpler, more focused life, prioritizing his needs and goals above the desire for material wealth.
3Despite having a job, she still falls below the breadline and struggles to make ends meet.
4The recent changes in tax laws have left the poor struggling to make ends meet, while the rich continue to find ways to avoid paying their fair share.
more
Copyright © 2020 Langeek Inc. | All Rights Reserved | Privacy Policy