walk of life: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘walk of life’ mean?
"Walk of life" refers to a person's occupation or social position. It emphasizes the diversity of people and can be used to describe individuals from different backgrounds or professions.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "woman on the street" refers to an ordinary woman without any special knowledge or expertise in a particular field or subject.
A whistle walk refers to a leisurely stroll or walk. It implies a relaxed and carefree attitude while moving with ease and confidence.
The idiom "walk through" means to explain or demonstrate something in a step-by-step manner, often for the purpose of helping someone understand or learn it.
"Walking the talk" means to actually do what one says or promises, rather than just talking about it. It emphasizes the importance of actions matching words, demonstrating integrity and credibility.
The idiom "walk the line" means to maintain a careful and conscientious balance between two opposing forces or viewpoints, without deviating or favoring one over the other.
"Walk the floor" means to pace back and forth restlessly, usually due to anxiety, worry, or anticipation.
The idiom "walk the dog" means to take the responsibility of performing a task or fulfilling an obligation, often for someone else's benefit or convenience.
The idiom "walk on the wild side" means to engage in risky or unconventional behavior, often associated with breaking societal norms or boundaries.
A Tapestry of Existence
The idiom "walk the streets" is another commonly used expression in the English language that is related to the phrase "walk of life." When someone is said to "walk the streets," it means that they are out in the public, interacting with people and experiencing the world around them. This idiom is often used to describe someone who is actively involved in society and engaged with their surroundings.
The phrase "walk the streets" can be used in a literal sense, for example, when referring to someone who is walking in a city or town, exploring the streets and observing the people and activities around them. However, it is also used figuratively to describe someone who is actively participating in society, involved in social causes, or simply engaged in their community.
The idiom "man in the street" is yet another related expression that is similar in meaning to "walk the streets." It is often used to refer to an ordinary person, a common individual who represents the average citizen of society. The phrase "man in the street" can be applied to both men and women and is not meant to exclude any gender.
When someone is described as the "man in the street," it suggests that they are a regular person who does not have any particular influence or power. They are just an average individual, going about their daily life and facing the same struggles and challenges as everyone else.
The phrase "man in the street" is commonly used in discussion or analysis of public opinion, politics, or social issues. It is often used to emphasize that the perspective and opinions of the average person in society are important and should be taken into account.
When considering the idioms "walk the streets" and "man in the street" in relation to the concept of "walk of life," it becomes clear that they share a similar theme of engagement and involvement with the world around us. All three idioms highlight the idea that individuals have their own unique paths and experiences, and that everyone plays a role in shaping society.
Just as the idiom "walk of life" emphasizes the diversity of occupations and social positions, "walk the streets" and "man in the street" emphasize the importance of engaging with the world and the people around us. The idioms remind us that every person has a voice and a perspective that is valuable and worthy of consideration.
Whether we are "walking the streets" or being the "man in the street," these idioms remind us to actively participate in society and to embrace the diversity and richness of the human experience. They encourage us to recognize and appreciate the unique paths and perspectives of individuals from all walks of life.
So, the next time you hear the idiom "walk of life" or come across the expressions "walk the streets" or "man in the street," remember that they are all reminders of the uniqueness and diversity of individuals in society. They encourage us to engage with the world around us, embrace different perspectives, and celebrate the various paths that people take in their lives.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom walk of life can be used in a sentence:
- People from all walks of life attended the charity event.
- She has friends from various walks of life, including doctors, artists, and farmers.
- It's important to be accepting of individuals from different walks of life.