What does “Save someone's bacon” mean?
"Save someone's bacon" means to rescue or help someone in a difficult situation.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I was running late for work, but luckily my neighbor saved my bacon by giving me a ride.
Example
The firefighter saved the family's bacon by rescuing them from the burning building.
Example
I forgot my wallet at home, but my friend saved my bacon by lending me some money
Is “Save someone's bacon” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Save someone's bacon” 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 “Save someone's bacon” effectively in context?
You can use "Save someone's bacon" to describe a situation where someone is rescued or helped in a difficult or challenging situation. It emphasizes the idea of someone coming to the rescue and preventing a negative outcome. For example, if a friend helps you out of a tough spot, you might say, 'Thanks for saving my bacon!'
- 1Transportation
I was running late for work, but luckily my neighbor saved my bacon by giving me a ride.
- 2Emergency
The firefighter saved the family's bacon by rescuing them from the burning building.
- 3Financial
I forgot my wallet at home, but my friend saved my bacon by lending me some money.
Similar phrases to “Save someone's bacon”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Save someone's bacon” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Save someone's bacon" is unknown.
Is “Save someone's bacon” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Save someone's bacon" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to express gratitude for being rescued or helped in a difficult situation.
What tone does “Save someone's bacon” have?
"Save someone's bacon" conveys a tone of relief and gratitude. It's often used to express appreciation for someone who has come to the rescue and prevented a negative outcome.
Can “Save someone's bacon” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Save someone's bacon" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of being rescued or helped in a difficult situation. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'Thanks for saving my bacon!' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'You really saved my bacon!' to express gratitude.
