make bricks without straw: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘make bricks without straw’ mean?
The idiom *make bricks without straw* means to attempt or expect someone to achieve something impossible or difficult without providing them with the necessary resources or tools.
Idiom Explorer
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The idiom "make hard work of" means to find something difficult or challenging that should be easy or straightforward.
Unearth Ancient Insight: Strawless Brick-Making
The idiom "make bricks without straw" originated from an Old Testament biblical story and has since become a widely used phrase in the English language. The phrase refers to attempting to accomplish a task without the necessary resources or materials, leading to frustration and inefficiency.
The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the book of Exodus in the Bible, specifically in the story of the Israelites' enslavement in ancient Egypt. In Exodus 5:7-19, the Pharaoh orders the taskmasters to increase the workload of the Israelite slaves in response to Moses' request to let them go and worship their God. The Pharaoh goes on to insist that the Israelites produce the same number of bricks as before, but without being provided with the necessary straw, which was crucial for brick-making at the time.
This biblical account serves as the direct source for the idiom "make bricks without straw," highlighting the impossible nature of the task given to the Israelites. Without straw, an essential material for making bricks, it would have been impossible for the slaves to achieve their required quota. The idiom uses this scenario as a metaphor for attempting to accomplish a task without the appropriate resources.
Over time, the idiom "make bricks without straw" has evolved beyond its biblical origins and has been adopted into everyday language to convey a broader meaning. It is commonly used to express the frustration and futility experienced when trying to achieve a goal without the necessary means, whether it be physical resources, information, or support.
The continued usage of this idiom throughout the centuries demonstrates its enduring relevance and relatability. It resonates with individuals who have faced challenges or setbacks in their endeavors and serves as a reminder of the importance of having the appropriate tools and resources to achieve success.
While the idiom "make bricks without straw" holds a clear meaning, its interpretation may vary depending on the context in which it is used. It can be applied to various situations where individuals are expected to deliver results under impossible conditions or constraints, highlighting the need for realistic expectations and adequate support to accomplish tasks effectively.
One related idiom that shares a similarity with "make bricks without straw" is "bang one's head against a brick wall." This idiom also conveys a sense of frustration and futility when trying to achieve something. Just as making bricks without the necessary materials is an impossible task, banging one's head against a brick wall is a fruitless and painful endeavor.
Another related idiom that shares a similar theme is "built like a brick outhouse." This idiom is often used to describe someone who is physically strong and sturdy. It suggests that the person is built with strength and resilience, much like a well-built outhouse made of bricks.
The idiom "make bricks without straw" and its related idioms highlight the importance of having the necessary resources, support, and realistic expectations when pursuing goals. They serve as reminders that success is best achieved when equipped with the appropriate tools, whether they be physical or metaphorical.
In exploring the idiom "make bricks without straw," its biblical origins offer insight into its historical context and initial meaning. However, the phrase's continued use in contemporary language shows its universality and adaptability. The idiom serves as a reminder of the difficulties faced when attempting to achieve goals without the essential resources. As such, it remains a relevant and powerful expression, resonating with individuals who have experienced the frustration of working without adequate support.
Example usage
Example 1: Without proper training, it is impossible to make bricks without straw when it comes to learning a new skill.
Example 2: The manager put too much pressure on the employees to meet unrealistic deadlines, essentially asking them to make bricks without straw.
Example 3: The teacher assigned a complex project with very limited resources, expecting the students to make bricks without straw.
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