English Idioms

Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms

Keep body and soul together

Meaning

The idiom "keep body and soul together" means to manage or take care of one's health, finances, relationships, and overall well-being. It suggests that maintaining these aspects of life is crucial for maintaining the individual as a whole. The phrase has its roots in the early 19th century and has since become a common expression used in both formal and informal settings.

The literal meaning of "keep body and soul together" is to preserve one's body and soul, which are metaphorical ways of referring to health and well-being. The figurative or metaphorical meaning is that maintaining good physical and emotional health is essential for a person's overall happiness and success in life.

Usage

  • "I need to keep my finances in check if I want to keep body and soul together during these tough times."
  • "It's important to take care of your health, so you can keep body and soul together for years to come."
  • "With the stress of work, it can be difficult to keep body and soul together, but taking breaks and practicing self-care can help."
  • "I want to make sure I'm doing everything I can to keep my relationship healthy so that I can keep body and soul together with my partner."
  • "I know I need to eat healthily if I want to keep body and soul together, but sometimes it's hard to resist fast food."

Roots and History

The idiom "keep body and soul together" first appeared in the late 18th century as a medical term used by doctors. It referred to the idea that maintaining physical health was necessary for mental well-being and overall happiness. Over time, the phrase became more commonly used as an expression of managing one's health and relationships. In contemporary language, the idiom is still used as a metaphorical way of referring to the importance of taking care of oneself in all aspects of life.

Synonyms in English

  • "Stay in shape."
  • "Take care of yourself."
  • "Manage your finances."
  • "Maintain a healthy relationship."
  • "Be mindful of your health and well-being."

Synonyms in other languages

  • French: "Garder une bonne santé" (maintain good health)
  • Spanish: "Tener buena salud y bienestar mental" (have good physical and mental health)
  • German: "Sorge sicher für sein Gesundheit und Wohler-Being" (make sure to take care of one's health and well-being)
  • Italian: "Mantener la salute e il benessere mentale" (maintain good physical and mental health)
  • Chinese: "保健身体和心理健康" (preserve both physical health and psychological health)

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