by trade

The idiom "by trade" is commonly used in everyday English to describe a person's primary occupation or profession. It is often used to indicate that someone is trained or skilled in a particular field or industry.

The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the Middle Ages when trade referred to a specific craft or occupation that required specialized skills. The phrase "by trade" is believed to have originated from the Old English word "tred," which meant a path or course. Over time, the word "tred" evolved to "trade," which came to denote a specific occupation or profession.

When someone is described as being a carpenter by trade or a chef by trade, it implies that their occupation is not just a casual hobby or temporary job but rather an area where they have undergone training, gained experience, and honed their skills. It signifies that this profession is their primary source of income and that they are well-versed in the techniques and knowledge required for that specific trade.

The idiom "by trade" can also be used humorously or ironically to describe someone who may not be highly skilled or proficient in their stated profession. For example, if someone jokingly refers to themselves as a "chef by trade" while struggling to cook a simple meal, it implies that their claim of being a chef may not be entirely accurate, and their lack of expertise is evident.

The idiom "by trade" is closely related to the idiom "bad word". When someone is described as a carpenter by trade and a plumber by bad word, it suggests that they are primarily a carpenter but may not be highly proficient in their plumbing skills. In this context, the idiom "bad word" adds a playful element and highlights the person's lack of expertise in a particular trade.

The idiom "by trade" is also related to the idiom "common or garden variety". When someone is described as a lawyer by trade and a photographer of common or garden variety, it suggests that they are primarily a lawyer but also dabble in photography as a hobby or side interest. The idiom "common or garden variety" adds a touch of informality and highlights the person's lesser degree of specialization in their secondary trade.

The idiom "by trade" is commonly used in English to denote a person's primary occupation or profession. It signifies that the individual has specialized skills, training, and experience in a specific field. Whether used literally or figuratively, this idiom highlights a person's expertise in their chosen trade. The related idioms "bad word", "save", "common or garden variety", "day in, day out", and "by virtue of" add further nuances and depth to our understanding of the person's profession, emphasizing their specialization, flexibility, informality, consistent involvement, and additional roles or positions.