English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Do one’s bit
Meaning
The idiom "do one’s bit" means to contribute or participate in something as much as one is able or expected. It often implies a sense of duty or responsibility, and suggests that individuals should work together towards a common goal.
Usage
- Despite her exhaustion, she always did her bit by finishing all the tasks assigned to her.
- The teamwork on this project was exemplary, with everyone doing their bit to ensure its success.
- When people see you doing your bit, they are often inspired to do the same.
- As a responsible citizen, I always try to do my bit by participating in community activities.
- While some may argue that it's not enough to just do one's bit, others believe that every contribution counts.
Roots and History
The phrase "do one’s bit" has its roots in the British military, where it was used to refer to a soldier's duty to perform their assigned tasks to the best of their ability. The expression gained widespread usage during World War I, when soldiers were expected to make sacrifices and contribute towards the war effort in any way they could. Over time, the phrase has come to be used more broadly to refer to any form of contribution or participation, whether it be in a work setting or in society at large.
Synonyms in English
- Do one's part
- Make a contribution
- Be involved
- Join in
- Play one's role
Synonyms in other languages
- En français: "faire son devoir" (literally, "to do one's duty")
- In Spanish: "hacer su parte" (literally, "to make one's part")
- In German: "den Teil machen" (literally, "to make the part")
- In Italian: "fare il proprio dovere" (literally, "to do one's duty")
- In Portuguese: "far o seu dever" (literally, "to do one's duty")