What does “Bread and butter” mean?
"Bread and butter" means a person's main source of income or livelihood.
What context can I use the in?
Example
After losing his job, he had to find a new bread and butter.
Example
Her art became her bread and butter after she started selling her paintings.
Example
He's been working two jobs to make sure he has a steady bread and butter
Is “Bread and butter” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Bread and butter” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Bread and butter” effectively in context?
You can use "Bread and Butter" to refer to someone's main source of income or livelihood. It emphasizes the importance of this source for their survival and well-being. For example, if someone asks you about your job, you can say, 'I work as a teacher, it's my bread and butter.'
- 1Job
After losing his job, he had to find a new bread and butter.
- 2Artistic Career
Her art became her bread and butter after she started selling her paintings.
- 3Financial Stability
He's been working two jobs to make sure he has a steady bread and butter.
Similar phrases to “Bread and butter”:
The means of supporting oneself, especially financially
Example
Farming is their livelihood.
The person who earns the money to support a family
Example
He is the breadwinner of the family.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Bread and butter” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Bread and Butter" is unknown.
Is “Bread and butter” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Bread and Butter" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to talk about their main source of income or to refer to something that provides them with financial stability.
What tone does “Bread and butter” have?
"Bread and Butter" conveys a neutral tone. It is a straightforward expression used to discuss someone's livelihood without any particular emotional connotation.
Can “Bread and butter” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Bread and Butter" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a widely understood idiom that is commonly used in conversations, interviews, and professional contexts.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She lost her job and had to find a new bread and butter.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'My bread and butter' to refer to their main source of income.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- livelihood
- breadwinner
- main source of income
- means of support
- financial sustenance
Antonyms
- hobby
- side gig
- secondary income
- extra money
