Sing for (one's) supper In english explanation

The meaning, explanation, definition and origin of the idiom/phrase "sing for (one's) supper", English Idiom Dictionary ( also found in Vietnamese )

author Tonia Thai calendar 2021-06-09 03:06

Meaning of Sing for (one's) supper

Sing for (one's) supper American British old-fashioned

To gain the benefit or reward by working or providing a service

If you work hard and diligently, I will sing for my supper by signing the internship confirmation for you.

I allow you to shelter here for three days, but you have to sing for your supper by watering the rose field every morning and late afternoon.

I wanted my friend to pay for the meal, but he said I had to sing for my supper by helping him complete his assignments.

Grammar and Usage of Sing for (one's) supper

Verb Forms

  • sing for (one's) supper
  • sings for (one's) supper
  • sang for (one's) supper
  • sung for (one's) supper
  • singing for (one's) supper

The verb "sing" should be conjugated according to its tense. 

Origin of Sing for (one's) supper

This metaphoric term alludes to wandering minstrels who performed in taverns and were paid with a meal. First recorded in 1609, it gained currency with the familiar nursery rhyme, “Little Tommy Tucker, sings for his supper” (c. 1744).

The Origin Cited: https://www.dictionary.com/ .
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TODAY
one hand washes the other (and both wash the face)

Used to indicate that helping each other or working together toward the same goal will have advantages for everyone who is involved

Example:

The relationship between fashion and film is that one hand washes the other and both wash the face.

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