them’s the breaks: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘them's the breaks’ mean?
The idiom "them's the breaks" is used to convey that a difficult or unfortunate situation is unavoidable and there is nothing one can do about it.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "the end of one's rope" means to reach the limits of one's patience, stamina, or resources, with no more options or solutions available.
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An idiom that refers to the difficulties or setbacks experienced at the initial stages of a new project, process, or endeavor.
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An idiom meaning that one has to accept a situation or offer as it is, without the possibility of negotiation or change.
The idiom "take it or leave it" is a common expression in the English language. It is typically used when someone presents an offer, proposition, or suggestion to another party. The idiom implies that the recipient has two options: either accept the offer as it is without negotiation or decline it entirely.
Cosmic Riddles
Them's the breaks is an idiomatic expression that originated in the United States. It's one of those things that you might hear in casual conversation or informal writing. You know, when something unfortunate happens and you just have to accept it. more's the pity, right?
The phrase "them's the breaks" doesn't have a direct literal meaning. It's used to express a philosophical acceptance of the ups and downs of life. It's like saying, "Hey, shit happens, and we just have to deal with it." It's a reminder that life isn't always fair, and sometimes you're just shit out of luck.
The origins of the idiom can be traced back to the mid-20th century, although the exact date and source are unclear. It is believed to have emerged from American slang and gradually gained popularity in informal speech. And you know what? It's a phrase that has stood the test of time.
Now, let's break down the phrase itself. "Them's" is a colloquial contraction of "them is," used in certain regions of the United States. It adds a folksy, down-to-earth tone to the expression. And "breaks"? Well, it doesn't refer to physical breaks or fractures. It's more metaphorical, like the breaks or setbacks we face in life.
Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and sometimes, things just don't go as planned. Maybe you didn't get the job you wanted or your car broke down. It's frustrating, but hey, them's the breaks. It's one of those things you have to accept as a part of life. Because, let's face it, we're all in the same boat.
When someone says "them's the breaks" to you, they might be sympathizing with you and expressing understanding. They get it. They know that sometimes life throws you a curveball, and it sucks. But there's a camaraderie in knowing that we all experience setbacks and disappointments. It's like saying, "Hey, you're not alone. We've all been there."
On the other hand, "them's the breaks" can also be used more dismissively or nonchalantly. It's like saying, "Well, tough luck. That's just how it is." It's a way of downplaying the significance of a negative outcome and moving on. Life goes on, and dwelling on the negatives won't get you anywhere.
So, why do we use this expression? It's because we recognize that life's inevitable setbacks and disappointments are just a part of the journey. We're all in this together, navigating the ups and downs. It's not always easy, but it's what makes us resilient and adaptable.
Next time you find yourself facing a setback, remember that "them's the breaks." It's one of those things that you can't control, and that's okay. It's more's the pity, but hey, shit happens. And in the end, it's how we handle those breaks that defines us.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "them's the breaks" can be used in a sentence:
- 1. I'm sorry your favorite team lost the game, but them's the breaks.
- 2. I worked really hard on that project, but I didn't get the promotion. Oh well, them's the breaks.
- 3. I tried my best to win the lottery, but I didn't. Them's the breaks, I guess.
"Them's the breaks" is used to express the acceptance of an unfortunate or disappointing outcome, indicating that it is simply the way things happen and there is nothing one can do to change it. It acknowledges that life is filled with both good and bad outcomes, and sometimes we have to accept the disappointments as part of the natural course of events.
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