bring home the bacon
/brɪŋ hoʊm ðə ˈbeɪkən/to earn money to support one's family or oneself financially
She wakes up early every day to bring home the bacon for her kids.
She works hard to earn enough money to take care of her children.
Many people believe the husband should bring home the bacon, but times are changing.
Many people think the traditional role of the husband is to be the primary earner.
Often implies the effort required to provide for dependents, not just earning any income.
Collocations
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Avoiding Gender Stereotypes
While the idiom traditionally implies a male breadwinner, modern usage applies to anyone earning income to support their family. Avoid assuming gender roles when using this phrase.
⚡Gold Rule
Context Matters
Use 'bring home the bacon' when discussing financial responsibility for dependents, not for general income generation. For example, 'He brings home the bacon for his three children' is correct, but 'She brings home the bacon from her part-time job' may sound odd unless she is the sole or primary earner.
📖Word Origin
The phrase dates back to the early 20th century, originating from a 1906 newspaper advertisement for a breakfast food product called 'bringing home the bacon.' It later evolved to mean providing for one's family financially, as bacon was a staple food item that symbolized sustenance and prosperity.
📝Usage Notes
This idiom is commonly used in American and British English to emphasize the importance of earning money to support a household. It reflects traditional gender roles but is now used broadly regardless of who earns the income.