man of parts: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘man of parts’ mean?
The idiom "man of parts" refers to a person who is versatile and talented in various areas or skills.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "whole box of tricks" refers to a person or thing that possesses a wide range of skills, abilities, or resources. It suggests that the subject has a complete set or collection of tools or methods for accomplishing a task or achieving a goal.
The idiom "play a part" means to have a role or contribute to a particular situation or outcome.
The idiom "much of a muchness" means that two or more things are very similar or almost identical in value or quality.
The idiom "mixed bag" means a collection of things or people that are diverse in quality, character, or suitability.
The idiom "man up" is used to encourage someone to be brave, tough, or resilient, often in the face of challenges or difficult situations, reflecting stereotypical masculine traits.
The idiom "man on the street" refers to an ordinary person, typically an average citizen, who provides opinions or perspectives on a particular topic or issue. This term is frequently used in journalism to capture the views of the general public.
The idiom "man of the people" refers to an individual who is relatable and well-liked by the general public. This person typically exhibits qualities of being down-to-earth, approachable, and in touch with the concerns and needs of ordinary people.
A "man of few words" is someone who speaks very little and is generally hesitant to engage in conversation or express their thoughts or feelings verbally.
The idiom "manners maketh man" means that a person's behavior and social graces are a true reflection of their character and can have a significant impact on how they are perceived by others.
The idiom "man in the street" refers to an ordinary person or a typical member of the general public, with no specific expertise or knowledge in a particular field.
Multitalented Maven
The idiom "man of parts" is a commonly used phrase in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States. It originated in England in the early 17th century and gradually became part of everyday vocabulary in other English-speaking nations as well. The term "man" in this idiom can be interpreted broadly to include individuals of any gender.
The phrase "man of parts" is often used to describe someone who possesses a wide range of abilities, skills, or talents. It admires individuals who have demonstrated exceptional competence in multiple fields. It suggests that the person in question is highly versatile and accomplished in various areas.
Being referred to as a "man of parts" implies that the person is a polymath, excelling in multiple disciplines simultaneously. It emphasizes their versatility and intellectual prowess.
In addition to conveying versatility and admiration, the idiom "man of parts" also adds an element of intrigue or mystery. It implies that the person possesses hidden depths or talents that may not be immediately apparent.
While the idiom "man of parts" is not as commonly used in contemporary language as it once was, it still carries its figurative value. It can be employed to describe individuals who have achieved remarkable success across different domains.
Although the idiom primarily focuses on individuals with diverse abilities, it also carries connotations of uniqueness and rarity. It suggests that those referred to as a "man of parts" are not easily replaceable, as their combination of skills and talents is distinctive and uncommon.
The idiom "man of parts" has historical roots dating back to the 17th century and continues to be used in contemporary contexts. It praises individuals who possess multifaceted talents and showcases their diversity and exceptional competence. The phrase also adds an air of intrigue and uniqueness, highlighting the distinctiveness of these individuals. While less commonly used today, it retains its figurative value and offers a glimpse into the complex and multifaceted nature of human abilities.
The idioms "jill of all trades" and "jack of all trades" are related to the concept of being a "man of parts." These idioms are commonly used to describe individuals who are versatile and skilled in many different areas.
A "jill of all trades" refers to a woman who has a wide range of skills and abilities. It implies that she is capable and knowledgeable in various domains. The idiom highlights her versatility and adaptability, praising her ability to handle different tasks competently.
Similarly, a "jack of all trades" is a phrase used to describe a man who is skilled and capable in many different areas. It recognizes his ability to perform various tasks proficiently and showcases his versatility.
Both idioms, "jill of all trades" and "jack of all trades," align with the concept of being a "man of parts." They emphasize the diversity of skills and talents in individuals, acknowledging their ability to excel in multiple areas. These idioms further showcase the praise and admiration for those who possess multifaceted abilities.
Overall, the idioms "jill of all trades" and "jack of all trades" complement the concept of a "man of parts." They all highlight the versatility, adaptability, and talent of individuals in handling various tasks and excelling in multiple domains.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "man of parts" can be used in a sentence:
- She is a true Renaissance woman, a brilliant scientist, and a talented artist — a real man of parts.
- John is a man of many talents who can fix a car, play the piano, and speak multiple languages fluently — a man of parts indeed.
- As a man of parts, he excels in both his professional career as a lawyer and his personal life as a loving father and husband.
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