What does “Jack-of-all-trades” mean?
"Jack-of-all-trades" means a person who has many different skills or abilities.
What context can I use the in?
Example
My dad is a true Jack-of-all-trades - he can fix anything!
Example
She's a Jack-of-all-trades - she can cook, paint, and play the piano.
Example
He's the go-to person in the office because he's a Jack-of-all-trades and can handle any task
Is “Jack-of-all-trades” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Jack-of-all-trades” 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 “Jack-of-all-trades” effectively in context?
You can use "Jack-of-all-trades" to describe someone who has many different skills or abilities. It emphasizes their versatility and adaptability. For example, if you have a friend who is good at cooking, painting, and playing the piano, you might say, 'She's a Jack-of-all-trades - she can do it all!'
- 1Home
My dad is a true Jack-of-all-trades - he can fix anything!
- 2Hobbies
She's a Jack-of-all-trades - she can cook, paint, and play the piano.
- 3Work
He's the go-to person in the office because he's a Jack-of-all-trades and can handle any task.
Similar phrases to “Jack-of-all-trades”:
Someone who has a broad range of knowledge and skills in various fields
Example
She's a true Renaissance person - she excels in art, science, and literature.
A person skilled at a variety of repairs or maintenance tasks
Example
He's the go-to handyman in the neighborhood - he can fix anything!
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Jack-of-all-trades” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Jack-of-all-trades" can be traced back to the 17th century. It is derived from the traditional figure of Jack, a common name for an ordinary man, and the phrase 'of all trades,' which refers to various occupations or skills. The term was initially used to describe someone who had a wide range of skills and could perform multiple tasks competently.
Is “Jack-of-all-trades” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Jack-of-all-trades" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. It is often used to praise someone's diverse skills or to describe someone who is versatile and capable in various areas.
What tone does “Jack-of-all-trades” have?
"Jack-of-all-trades" conveys a tone of admiration and appreciation. It is typically used in a positive context to highlight someone's wide range of abilities and their ability to handle different tasks effectively.
Can “Jack-of-all-trades” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Jack-of-all-trades" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that describes someone's diverse skill set. You can use it in casual conversations with friends and family, as well as in more formal situations such as interviews, resumes, or professional discussions.
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's a Jack-of-all-trades - she can do it all!' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'He's a real "Jack-of-all-trades"!' to imply someone's versatility and competence.
