The phrase "live from hand to mouth" means to live day by day, without any savings or financial stability. Phonetically, the word 'live' is pronounced as /lɪv/ with a short 'i' sound and a silent 'e' at the end. The word 'from' is pronounced as /frʌm/ with a short 'u' sound. The word 'hand' is pronounced as /hænd/ with a short 'a' sound. The word 'to' is pronounced as /tu/ with a short 'u' sound. Finally, the word 'mouth' is pronounced as /maʊθ/ with a diphthong 'ou'.
The phrase "live from hand to mouth" is an idiomatic expression that refers to a mode of existence characterized by constant financial struggles, limited resources, and an inability to save or plan for the future. It implies a state of living in which one's income or resources are just enough to meet immediate needs, leaving no surplus or means for saving or investing. The idiom suggests a continuous cycle of surviving from one financial obligation or day-to-day expense to the next, often lacking security or stability.
When someone is said to be living from hand to mouth, it implies a lack of financial security and a constant need to rely on immediate income to cover basic necessities. It can also indicate a state of being unable to accumulate wealth or assets due to the struggle of simply making ends meet. People who live from hand to mouth may find it difficult to plan for the future or cope with unexpected expenses, as their limited funds are solely allocated to immediate needs. This idiom is commonly used to describe individuals or families who have little to no savings or financial cushion, often facing economic uncertainty and insecurity. Overall, living from hand to mouth represents a precarious financial situation that can entail a constant struggle to meet basic needs due to limited financial resources and a lack of financial planning or security.