make do and mend: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘make do and mend’ mean?
The idiom "make do and mend" means to manage with what one has and repair or improve it instead of buying something new.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "patch up" means to repair or fix something, often referring to relationships or conflicts that need resolving. It implies resolving issues by finding a solution or compromising to restore harmony.
An idiom meaning to be in a difficult or challenging situation that needs to be resolved or fixed. It implies being in a state of trouble or inconvenience.
The idiom "mend one's ways" means to change one's behavior for the better, usually after a period of wrongdoing or bad habits. It implies a conscious effort to improve and rectify past mistakes or shortcomings.
The idiom "make the best of one's way" means to do the best one can in a given situation or make the most favorable decision possible.
The idiom "make light work of" means to complete a task easily or quickly without much effort or difficulty. It implies that the task was not challenging and required minimal time or energy to accomplish.
The idiom "make light of" means to minimize or downplay the importance or seriousness of something.
The art of resourcefulness
The idiom "make do and mend" is commonly used in English-speaking countries and it dates back to the early 20th century. It means making the most of what one has and finding resourceful ways to repair or reuse items instead of discarding them.
During World War II, the phrase became widely popularized in the United Kingdom as the government encouraged frugality and self-sufficiency due to the scarcity of resources. The Ministry of Information created a campaign that emphasized the importance of mending and reusing items to support the war effort.
This practical mindset behind the idiom promotes creativity and improvisation in difficult circumstances. Instead of constantly chasing new things, it suggests that one can patiently and thoughtfully make the best of what is available, finding ways to cope and adapt with limited resources or circumstances.
The addition of "and mend" in the idiom emphasizes the significance of repairing and maintaining items to prolong their usefulness.
The renewal of interest in the idiom "make do and mend" in recent years coincides with the rise of sustainable and eco-friendly movements. It aligns with the principles of reducing waste, recycling, and repurposing objects, as well as valuing craftsmanship over mass production.
By embracing the concept of "make do and mend," individuals can contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle and reduce their environmental footprint. This mindset encourages a shift away from the throwaway culture and promotes resourcefulness and appreciation for the value of time, effort, and materials.
In a fast-paced consumer society, the idiom "make do and mend" serves as a reminder to pause and consider alternatives before automatically replacing or discarding things. It encourages resilience, adaptability, and ingenuity, as well as fostering a deeper connection to the objects we own.
While the idiom "make do and mend" may seem simple, it holds a deeper significance that can be applied to various aspects of life beyond material possessions. It encourages individuals to find satisfaction and contentment in making the best of what they have rather than constantly striving for something better or new.
This idiom embodies the notion of resourcefulness, resilience, and sustainability. It has historical roots in times of scarcity but remains relevant and applicable in modern society. It urges individuals to value and prolong the usefulness of their belongings, contributing to a more sustainable and mindful lifestyle.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *make do and mend* can be used in a sentence:
- We can't afford to buy new clothes, so we'll have to make do and mend the ones we have.
- During the war, people had to make do and mend their belongings due to the scarcity of resources.
- Even though the car is old and in need of repair, I'll try to make do and mend it until I can afford a new one.
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