Trying to make ends meet

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btn_lipservice.gifEnglish Podcast

Some people have a lot of money and some people have only a little bit. This episode focuses on expressions that people use when they are talking about trying not to spend money, often because they don’t have very much. There are people who pinch pennies all the time, and others who only tighten their belts when they have to. Listen to this episode to learn about making ends meet.

Maura: This expression is usually used when someone doesn’t have very much money. So if we continue with the example that you gave, Harp, if someone makes $500 a week, and it’s just enough money for them to be able to survive, to be able to pay their bills, like their rent of their food.
Harp: Yeah. They’re not buying a lot of fancy clothes or going on any trips. They’re just making enough money to meet their basic needs.
Maura: That’s right. So, the expression itself isn’t actually negative, but it’s often used in a situation where someone doesn’t have very much money or they’re trying to make ends meet. They’re trying to find a way to make enough money that they’re able to pay their bills.
Harp: Yeah. It’s used when people are having trouble making ends meet, usually.
Maura: That’s right. This expression, too, has a few interesting origins. And if you’re interested in those, we’ll tell you about them in our Learning Materials, which comes when you become a member.

Expressions from this episode included in the Learning Materials:

To feel down To make ends meet
Instant noodles A shower
To start someone off To get by
As long as Minimum wage
To get back on your feet To pinch pennies
To tighten your belt Broke
To cut costs

english PodcastPodcast/Learning Materials: Culips English Podcast, Photo Rap Genius



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