The phrase "what's yours is mine, and what's mine is mine" is a humorous way of saying, "Everything belongs to me." This phrase is a jocular variant of the more common and generous expression, "What's yours is mine, and what's mine is yours." The latter expression signifies a sense of sharing and mutual generosity, while the former is a playful twist on it, suggesting a more selfish or possessive attitude.

In short:

"What's yours is mine and what's mine is mine" is an idiom that describes a selfish attitude where a person believes that they have a right to other people's belongings as well as their own.

What Does “What's Yours is Mine and What's Mine is Mine” Mean?

The idiom is a playful yet critical way to describe someone's selfish behavior. Essentially, it tells you that the person wants to take what's yours while keeping all their stuff to themselves.

• Literal Meaning: The literal interpretation of this phrase is quite straightforward. A person who says this or is described this way believes that what belongs to you should be theirs, and what belongs to them should remain theirs.
• Figurative Meaning: On a more symbolic level, this idiom can represent an unfair relationship or situation where one side benefits much more than the other.
• Variations: You might also hear variations like "What's mine is mine, and what's yours is negotiable," which carries a similar meaning but is usually used in a less personal, more business-like context.

It's a saying that people use when they want to mock or call out selfish behavior, whether in friendships, relationships, or even business partnerships.

Where Does “What's Yours is Mine and What's Mine is Mine” Come From?

The idiom doesn't have a clear origin, but the sentiment it conveys has been around for centuries. You can find similar expressions in various languages and cultures, emphasizing how universally understood the concept of selfishness is.

Historical Usage

"The world is full of double beds, and most of the people who sleep in them are trying to get over the fact that in order to be happy in this world, you have to be happy with yourself first."

- Frederick Buechner, American writer and theologian.

The quote by Buechner touches on the sentiment that happiness and possession begin with self-contentment, though not necessarily advocating the selfish stance the idiom portrays.

10 Examples of "What's Yours is Mine and What's Mine is Mine" in Sentences

Let's look at how this idiom is used in different sentences, shedding light on its various nuances.

• She lived her life by the principle of what's yours is mine and what's mine is mine, taking her friend's clothes without asking and never sharing her own.
• "I can't stand around and watch him act like what's yours is mine and what's mine is mine," he said.
• The company operates on a what's yours is mine and what's mine is mine policy, taking all the profits but providing little to the employees.
• When Mark wanted to drop your name to gain some clout, he still insisted that "what's yours is mine and what's mine is mine," refusing to share the benefits.
• They say that what's yours is mine and what's mine is mine is the quickest way to lose friends.
• "He seems to think that what's yours is mine and what's mine is mine, even the finer things in life," she complained.
• When you said the same comeback, I thought right back at you: what's yours is mine, and what's mine is mine.
• It's your prerogative to choose but remember: what's yours is mine, and what's mine is mine.
• "If you believe what's yours is mine and what's mine is mine, you'll never look down upon others," said the philosopher sarcastically.
• My jaw dropped when I saw your surprise gift; what's yours is mine, and what's mine is mine.

Examples of “What's Yours is Mine and What's Mine is Mine” in Pop Culture

Here are real-life instances where this idiom has appeared in popular culture:

• In the TV show “Friends,” the character Joey occasionally displays this attitude, particularly when it comes to food.
• In the film "The Wolf of Wall Street," the corrupt corporate culture embodies the what's yours is mine and what's mine is mine philosophy.
• The song "Selfish" by Future and Rihanna touches on the idea, although not directly using the idiom.
• In the book "Animal Farm" by George Orwell, the pigs live by a what's yours is mine and what's mine is mine rule.
• In "Breaking Bad," Walter White's transformation is partially fueled by a what's yours is mine and what's mine is mine mentality.

Synonyms: Other/Different Ways to Say “What's Yours is Mine and What's Mine is Mine"

In this section, we'll explore various synonyms and alternative phrases that encapsulate the essence of this phrase:

• Self-centered
• Egocentric
• Greedy
• Me-first attitude

10 Frequently Asked Questions About “What's Yours is Mine and What's Mine is Mine”:

• What does the idiom mean?

This idiom describes a person who is selfish and believes that they should have everything, whether it belongs to them or someone else.

• Where does the idiom come from?

The exact origin is unclear, but the concept is universally recognized in many cultures.

• How do sentences incorporate this idiom?

It can be used to describe or criticize someone’s selfish behavior in various contexts, from personal relationships to business settings.

• Is this idiom in use worldwide?

Yes, although the phrase might differ, the sentiment is found in many languages and cultures.

• Is it appropriate to use in formal writing?

It's generally seen in informal contexts, but can be used in formal writing to emphasize a point strongly.

• Does the idiom have a humorous aspect?

It can be used humorously, though usually it highlights a negative trait.

• Is this idiom trending in modern language?

It remains relevant because it deals with a timeless human behavior—selfishness.

• Are there any songs that use this idiom?

While the idiom itself may not appear, songs discussing selfishness often touch on this concept.

• How does this idiom relate to society?

It criticizes an anti-social behavior that is generally frowned upon.

• Can you shorten the idiom?

Not really, the idiom’s meaning hinges on its full expression.

Final Thoughts About “What's Yours is Mine and What's Mine is Mine”

The idiom encapsulates a universally frowned upon trait: selfishness. It’s a phrase that’s as relevant today as it ever was, given that selfishness, unfortunately, is a part of human nature. Yet, recognizing and understanding the phrase can help us identify such behaviors and perhaps motivate change.

• Universality: This idiom has a timeless quality, proving that self-centered behavior is an enduring human trait.
• Conversational Utility: While the idiom can sound harsh, it succinctly conveys a complex idea, making it a useful tool.
• Historical Significance: Tracing back through history, the idiom serves as a marker of human behavior across various cultural and social contexts.
• Linguistic Variations: Recognizing that this phrase has multiple synonyms and expressions enriches our understanding and allows for more nuanced conversations.

This idiom, despite its negative tone, is essential for calling out and recognizing selfish behavior.