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to make (both) ends meet
01
to make enough money to pay for one's basic needs
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IdiomWhat 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.
Example
During the economic recession, many families felt they got the short end of the stick as they struggled to make ends meet while the wealthy seemed unaffected.
In times of economic hardship, many families are in the same boat, struggling to make ends meet.
The family lived on a tight budget, but they always managed to make ends meet.
Although they struggled to make ends meet, the Johnsons took pride in their children's academic achievements and aspirations.
They have been on their last legs financially for months and are struggling to make ends meet.
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