live and die by: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘live and die by’ mean?
The idiom "live and die by" means to strongly adhere to a particular principle or belief, often with unwavering commitment and devotion, even in the face of challenges or consequences. It conveys the idea of being entirely reliant on or judged by that principle or belief.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "to die for" means something is extremely desirable or excellent, to the point that one is willing to give up everything for it. It expresses a strong longing or admiration for something or someone.
The idiom "over my dead body" is commonly used in the United States to express strong opposition or resistance to something. It carries a sense of defiance and determination, suggesting that the speaker would never allow the thing mentioned to happen, even if it means sacrificing their life.
The idiom "not be caught dead" means to strongly dislike or have no interest in doing something, to the point that one would never engage in that activity, even under the most extreme circumstances.
The idiom "meet one's maker" means to die or to face death and meet God as the creator. It implies the belief that after death, a person will be judged by their actions in life.
The idiom "meet one's maker" is commonly used in English to mean "to die" or "to come to an end." It is often used in a religious or spiritual context, referring to meeting God or a higher power after death.
The idiom "matter of life and death" is used to convey a situation or decision that is extremely urgent, critical, or important, often with serious consequences.
The idiom "live paycheck to paycheck" means to spend all of one's income each month, barely managing to cover expenses without being able to save any money for emergencies or future needs.
The idiom *live over the brush* means to live outside the bounds of conventional societal expectations or norms, usually involving unconventional relationships or behavior.
The idiom "live over the brush" is not commonly used in contemporary American English. It is primarily used in British English, particularly in rural areas, and may be considered outdated.
The idiom "live on the edge" means to lead a risky or dangerous life, often seeking excitement or adrenaline. It implies a willingness to take risks and venture into uncertain or unconventional situations.
The Significance
The phrase "live and die by" is an idiom that expresses a person's strong commitment or obedience to a belief, principle, or set of rules. It implies unwavering dedication and an unyielding adherence to a specific course of action or ideology. The individual is willing to stand by their convictions and face the consequences, positive or negative. It conveys wholehearted devotion and defines the individual's life.
The idiom "live and die by" is often used to describe individuals deeply invested in a cause, belief system, or way of living. They are committed to principles, values, or a code of conduct. For example, one might say, "He lives and dies by the sword," to describe a person committed to the principles of chivalry and honor, even if it leads to their downfall. Similarly, someone might say, "She lives and dies by her ideals," to convey that an individual sticks to their values throughout their life, regardless of the consequences.
The idiom suggests that living and dying by something captures unwavering commitment and resolute dedication. It reflects the idea of remaining steadfast in the face of challenges and embodying devotion until the end. The figurative usage of the idiom encompasses the notion of a lifelong commitment, evoking a sense of completeness while leaving room to contemplate the multifaceted nature of loyalty and dedication.
The idiom "live on" is related to "live and die by" as it implies the continuation of existence beyond death. Although the phrase "live and die by" emphasizes commitment until death, "live on" suggests that someone's legacy or influence persists even after their passing. It conveys the idea that a person's impact extends beyond their lifespan, whether through their achievements, ideas, or contributions.
For instance, one might say, "Her groundbreaking research has allowed her ideas to live on, shaping the field for future generations." This statement indicates that despite her passing, her work and influence continue to shape and impact others, ensuring that she is remembered and her contributions are valued.
The idiom "die the way one lived" is also related to "live and die by" as both idioms reflect the idea of an individual's commitment and how it defines their life. "Die the way one lived" suggests that a person's end mirrors their way of living, highlighting the consistency and authenticity of their character and actions.
When applied in a broader sense, this idiom implies that the way someone faces death is a reflection of their values, beliefs, and how they lived their life. It suggests that individuals who live with integrity, kindness, bravery, or any other defining characteristic, would also approach death with the same qualities.
The idiom "live on the edge" has a slightly different connotation than "live and die by." While "live and die by" emphasizes commitment and unwavering dedication, "live on the edge" evokes a sense of risk-taking and living life to the fullest.
When someone is said to "live on the edge," it means they embrace excitement, thrill, and unpredictability in their life. They may seek out adventure, take risks, or consistently push their boundaries. The idiom implies a sense of fully immersing oneself in experiences, embracing adrenaline, and savoring the excitement that life has to offer.
Finally, the idiom "live off" is related to "live and die by" in that it explores the concept of reliance on something or someone for sustenance or support. While "live and die by" represents commitment and devotion, "live off" suggests dependency or deriving sustenance from a particular source.
When someone "lives off" something, it means they depend on it for their livelihood, nourishment, or survival. This could be a person who financially depends on another, an author who relies on royalties, or a community that depends on a certain industry for jobs and stability. The idiom highlights the idea of sustenance and support that enables an individual or group to maintain their existence and wellbeing.
Example usage
1. He always lived and died by his principles, never compromising on his beliefs.
2. The sales team's success was determined by their ability to meet their targets; they lived and died by their sales performance.
3. As an athlete, she knew that her chances of winning the competition would simply come down to her preparation and performance; she would live and die by her training.
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