The phrase "makes ends meet" is commonly used to describe someone who is able to cover their basic expenses with their income. To spell this phrase, we use the IPA phonetic transcription which is [meɪks ɛndz miːt]. This means that "makes" is spelled with a short "a" sound followed by a "k" and an "s" sound. "Ends" is spelled with a short "e" sound followed by an "n" and a "d". And "meet" is spelled with a long "e" sound followed by a "t".
The idiom "make ends meet" refers to the ability of an individual or a family to cover all their necessary expenses and maintain a basic standard of living with the income they have. The phrase implies that the individual or family is able to balance their income and expenses in a way that enables them to meet their financial obligations.
When someone is said to "make ends meet," it typically means they are able to pay for housing, food, utilities, transportation, and other essential needs without incurring debt or experiencing financial hardship. It suggests that their income is sufficient to cover these basic expenses.
To make ends meet, individuals often need to carefully budget and prioritize their spending, ensuring that they allocate their income in a way that fulfills their primary needs before considering any luxuries or non-essential expenses. This may involve making sacrifices, cutting corners, or finding additional sources of income, such as taking on extra shifts or part-time jobs, to bridge any financial gaps.
The phrase "make ends meet" implies a sense of financial prudence and resourcefulness. It highlights the importance of managing one's finances responsibly to maintain a stable and sustainable livelihood, particularly during times of economic hardship or limited income.