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AI for Breakfast
Post 157 - It’s the weekend - Idiom of the day
To cut one’s coat according to one’s cloth
Figurative meaning
"To cut one's coat according to one's cloth" means to plan or act based on the resources available to you. It emphasizes the importance of living within one's means and making decisions that align with what one can afford or manage.
Typical usage
This idiom is often used to advise someone to be mindful of their financial situation or capabilities when making plans. For example, if someone is thinking about buying a luxury car but has a limited budget, you might say, "Remember to cut your coat according to your cloth."
Origin
The idiom has its roots in tailoring, where a tailor literally cuts fabric (cloth) to make a coat. The amount of cloth available dictates the size and style of the coat that can be made. This practical advice from the world of tailoring has been metaphorically extended to other areas of life, suggesting that one should always consider their resources before making decisions.
The phrase has been in use since at least the 16th century. Similar expressions can be found in many cultures, emphasizing the universal wisdom of resource management and prudent planning.
