The phrase "the gift that keeps on giving" refers to something that continually provides benefits or pleasures over a period of time. It's often associated with gifts or acts that have enduring value or repeatedly create joy or satisfaction.
In short:
"The gift that keeps on giving" signifies a gift or action that consistently delivers joy, benefits, or pleasures over a significant period.
The idiom "the gift that keeps on giving" suggests something that persistently provides happiness, pleasure, or benefits long after it has been given or initiated. If something is described as a gift that keeps on giving, it implies that it continues to deliver joy, satisfaction, or benefits long after its initial receipt or introduction.
Key aspects of the idiom's meaning include:
The phrase originated from a promotional slogan used by the Victor Talking Machine Company in the 1920s. The slogan referred to their phonographs as a "gift that keeps on giving" because they provided entertainment long after their purchase. The phrase then made its way into the common language as an idiom to describe anything that provides persistent benefits or pleasures.
"When you go to your Victor Dealer’s to hear the three models of Victor-Radio, you will find them beautiful, compact, and soundly built, as become Victor instruments. You will recognize them as the gift that keeps on giving…a royal gift…at a very low price!"
- Victor Radio slogan, 1920s
Here are some examples of using the idiom in sentences:
The phrase "the gift that keeps on giving" often appears in media related to generosity, enduring value, and ongoing benefits or pleasures.
Some examples include:
There are several alternative expressions that convey a similar meaning to "the gift that keeps on giving."
Some of these include:
You can use these alternatives interchangeably depending on the context and the enduring nature of the gift or benefit involved.
"The gift that keeps on giving" is a phrase that refers to something that continues to provide benefits or pleasure over time.
You can use this idiom to describe any instance that consistently delivers benefits, joys, or positive results over a considerable duration, for example, a fruitful friendship or a lifelong learning process.
The phrase was initially a promotional slogan coined by the Victor Talking Machine Company in the early 20th century, where they touted their phonographs as a "gift that keeps on giving".
Mostly, the phrase is used in a positive context to express appreciation for something that consistently delivers benefits. However, it can occasionally be used ironically to refer to a problem or situation that repeatedly causes trouble.
Indeed, this idiom is frequently used to describe intangible or non-material gifts such as love, friendship, knowledge, or experiences that continually offer benefits or pleasures.
No, the phrase doesn't have to refer to a physical gift. It can also describe an experience, a person, or even a situation that continually provides benefits or pleasures.
Yes, like many idioms, this phrase can be used sarcastically. For instance, if a problem or situation keeps recurring in a bothersome way, it might be referred to as "the gift that keeps on giving".
While the phrase is well-known and widely used in English-speaking countries, its familiarity might not be as extensive in non-English speaking regions.
Some alternatives that convey a similar sentiment include "enduring gift", "lasting treasure", "persistent source of pleasure/benefits", "continual giver", and "perpetual bounty".
To sum up, the idiom "the gift that keeps on giving" emphasizes the enduring value and consistent benefits of a particular thing or experience. It encapsulates the idea of persistent advantages or pleasures that last over time.
Key aspects of the phrase:
Remember that the idiom is a perfect way to show appreciation for things or experiences that offer ongoing benefits. It's versatile and can be used in various contexts to describe everything from enduring friendships to educational experiences.
