The Village Idiom

that's your lot

The idiom "that's your lot" means that something has come to an end or there is nothing more to be expected or offered. It can be used to express that there is no more of something or that there is no further opportunity or possibility.

Filed under T

In a sentence

  • I've finished cooking, so that's your lot for dinner.
  • We've sold out of tickets for the concert, so if you haven't bought any yet, then that's your lot.
  • You've completed all the assigned tasks, so that's your lot for today. You can take a break now.

Where it comes from and how it is used

That's your lot is an idiomatic expression commonly used in British English. It is typically used to convey the idea of finality or completion. The phrase is believed to have originated in the late 18th or early 19th century and has since become a well-known idiom in the English language.

One possible origin of the idiom can be traced back to the world of theater. In theatrical productions, actors are often given a cue or line indicating that their part in the performance is finished. This line is referred to as a "cut." It is possible that "that's your lot" evolved from the use of this phrase in the theater, as a way of signaling the end of an actor's role or contribution.

Another possible origin of the idiom may be related to the concept of allotment or distribution. In this sense, "that's your lot" could be interpreted as a means of informing someone that they have received all of what was available or allotted to them. This interpretation aligns with the idea of finality and completion that the idiom often conveys.

"No more" is another idiomatic expression that is closely related to "that's your lot." The phrase "no more" is commonly used to indicate that there is nothing else remaining or available. It is often used in the context of declaring that something has reached its end or limit. This aligns with the sense of finality and completion conveyed by "that's your lot."

In a similar vein, "come to an end" is yet another related idiom that shares the concept of finality and completion. When something "comes to an end," it means that it has reached its conclusion or finished its course. This mirrors the idea behind "that's your lot," as both expressions emphasize the idea of something reaching its finality or conclusion.

Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.