Living off of is a phrasal verb that refers to the act of depending on or sustaining oneself by consuming or obtaining resources from a particular source or means, typically for sustenance, support, or survival. This expression usually conveys the idea of subsisting on or existing primarily through a specific entity, often related to food, income, or resources.
When someone is said to be living off of a certain source, it means they are reliant on that source to meet their basic needs. For instance, a person may be living off of their savings, indicating that they are using money from their savings account to cover their expenses. Similarly, individuals who rely on government assistance or social welfare programs for their day-to-day needs are often described as living off of the state or living off of welfare benefits.
The concept of living off of can also extend to sustenance obtained through natural resources. For example, indigenous communities or tribes may rely on hunting, fishing, or gathering to survive, effectively living off of the land. In this context, the term emphasizes their close connection and dependence on nature for their subsistence.
Overall, living off of conveys the notion of sustaining oneself by drawing resources or support from a specific source or means, which allows individuals or communities to meet their essential needs or maintain their livelihoods.
