The phrase "odd jobs" refers to small or casual tasks done for someone else in exchange for payment. The spelling of "odd jobs" uses the sound /ɒ/ for the "o" and the sound /dʒ/ for the "dj" sound. The letter "d" is pronounced /d/ and should not be pronounced /t/ like in some other words with "d" in the middle, such as "palace". The word "odd" refers to something unusual or strange, making "odd jobs" a fitting name for miscellaneous tasks.
Odd jobs refer to small, miscellaneous tasks or small-scale work assignments that typically do not require formal qualifications or specialized expertise. These tasks are usually performed on a temporary or irregular basis, often for a short period of time. People who engage in odd jobs are commonly referred to as handymen, handywomen, or general laborers.
Odd jobs can encompass a wide range of activities, such as household repairs and maintenance, cleaning, gardening, moving furniture, painting, babysitting, dog walking, or running errands. They may also include seasonal jobs like snow shoveling or leaf raking. Odd jobs are usually less-structured and involve flexible working arrangements, such as being hired daily, hourly, or on a contractual basis. Moreover, these tasks may not be an individual's primary occupation or source of livelihood.
Odd jobs can provide additional income, fill gaps between main employment or freelance projects, or serve as a means of gaining experience, especially for individuals who are starting their professional journey or seeking to acquire new skills. These jobs often require adaptability, resourcefulness, and the ability to perform a range of different tasks as needed. While odd jobs may not offer the stability or long-term benefits of regular employment, they can be a valuable source of supplemental income or a means to fill spare time with productive activities.
The term "odd jobs" originates from the combination of two words: "odd" and "job".
The term "odd" dates back to at least the 14th century, derived from the Old Norse word "oddr", meaning "third or additional number". Over time, it evolved to also mean "strange, peculiar, or differing from what is usual". In the context of "odd jobs", the word "odd" refers to work that is irregular, miscellaneous, or not fitting into a specific category.
The word "job" has a broader history. It originated from the Middle English word "jobbe" or "gobbe", which meant "piece of work" or "task". This Middle English term itself was derived from the Old French word "gobbe", meaning "lump, mass, or piece".