Tag Archives: survive

Get by

Meaning: To manage or survive with the resources one has, often in a challenging situation.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “With the increase in rent, it’s hard to get by on just one income.”
  2. “Even though her job doesn’t pay much, she finds ways to get by.”
  3. “We may not have much, but we always manage to get by.”

Origin: The idiom “get by” dates back to the early 20th century and is thought to come from the idea of “getting by” obstacles or challenges. It conveys the sense of navigating through life with just enough resources or support.

Get by

Ride out

Meaning: This idiom means to endure or survive a difficult situation, often by waiting for it to pass without taking significant action.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “We decided to stay home and ride out the storm.”
  2. “The company had to ride out the economic downturn before seeing profits again.”
  3. “He kept a low profile and managed to ride out the controversy.”

Origin: The phrase “ride out” comes from the world of sailing and horseback riding, where one would “ride out” a storm by enduring it until it passed, without altering course or making drastic changes. It has since evolved into a metaphor for enduring any difficult or challenging situation with patience and resilience, hoping that things will improve over time.

Ride out

Keep your head above water

Meaning: This idiom is used to describe the act of managing to survive or cope with a difficult or challenging situation, especially when facing financial, emotional, or other hardships. It implies staying afloat or maintaining one’s stability and resilience despite adversity or difficulties.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “Despite the financial struggles, they managed to keep their heads above water by cutting expenses and finding additional sources of income.”
  2. “She’s been working two jobs to keep her head above water and support her family.”
  3. “The company is struggling, but they’re doing their best to keep their heads above water and avoid bankruptcy.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “keep your head above water” is literal, referring to the act of staying afloat while swimming to prevent drowning. Over time, the phrase evolved into a metaphorical expression used to describe the ability to survive or cope with challenging circumstances. It emphasizes the importance of resilience, determination, and perseverance in overcoming difficulties and maintaining stability.