The expression "lady of leisure" paints a picture of a woman who doesn't need to work due to her financial situation. Hence, she can indulge in hobbies, travel, and other non-work-related activities. It's like saying, "She lives comfortably without needing a day job." The term can be found in various media and literature, often portraying a life of elegance and repose.
In short:
- "Lady of leisure" refers to a woman who doesn't have to work due to her financial situation and spends her time enjoying non-work related activities.
The phrase "lady of leisure" describes a woman who enjoys a life free from work demands, often due to her financial circumstances or social status. It conveys a sense of ease and luxury, emphasizing a lifestyle filled with relaxation and choice, untouched by daily work-related responsibilities.
Let's dive into its core meanings and usage:
The expression paints a picture of luxury, relaxation, and freedom from the daily grind most people experience.
The phrase has its roots in a time when societal norms were quite different. In past centuries, particularly among the upper classes, it was common for women not to do paid work. Instead, they were expected to manage the household, attend social events, and engage in refined hobbies. Over time, as society evolved, the phrase began to be used more broadly and occasionally with a touch of irony.
"Mrs. Dalloway said she would buy the flowers herself." - Virginia Woolf, Mrs. Dalloway, 1925
In Woolf's novel, Mrs. Dalloway is portrayed as a lady of leisure, focusing more on her social duties and the intricacies of her inner thoughts than any occupational responsibilities.
Understanding an idiom often comes easier with examples. Here's how "lady of leisure" can be used in various sentences:
The English language is vast, and there are often different ways to express a single idea. Here are some alternatives to our idiom:
A "lady of leisure" is a woman who doesn’t need to work because of her financial circumstances and spends her time enjoying hobbies and other non-work activities.
It has its roots in historical times when it was common, especially among the upper classes, for women not to engage in paid work but instead manage households and partake in social events.
It can be used in both ways. Some might view it as a dreamy, relaxed lifestyle, while others might use it with a touch of envy or sarcasm.
Not exactly. For men, phrases like "gentleman of leisure" might be more apt, but the idea remains the same.
While the term might have historical origins, it is still used today, often with a touch of irony or in a humorous context.
You could say, "Ever since she sold her business, she lives like a lady of leisure, traveling and enjoying hobbies."
Many fictional characters in literature and film, like Daisy Buchanan from "The Great Gatsby", can be seen as "ladies of leisure".
Not necessarily. It merely indicates that one doesn't engage in traditional work, but they might be busy with other activities or hobbies.
While the English language uses this phrase, many cultures have their equivalent terms or concepts to describe someone who lives without the need to work.
It often depends on financial circumstances. If someone has the means, they can choose to live as a "lady of leisure", focusing on non-work activities.
"Lady of leisure" is a term that evokes imagery of relaxation, luxury, and a life free from work demands. Whether referencing historical upper-class women, joking about a recent vacation, or describing someone's laid-back lifestyle, "lady of leisure" paints a picture of elegance and ease.
