- Meaning
- This idiom humorously advises someone not to abandon their primary source of income or stability to pursue a risky or unlikely venture, typically one they’re not skilled at. It suggests their current job is safer than their ambitions, often used to gently mock poor performance in a hobby or side project. The phrase carries a teasing, slightly sarcastic tone, but can also be affectionate, encouraging realism without crushing dreams.
- Origin
- The phrase emerged in 20th-century English, likely in the 1940s, tied to the rise of entertainment culture where amateurs tried careers in music, acting, or comedy. It first appeared in British slang, with a 1948 *Punch* magazine article using ‘don’t give up your day job’ to mock an amateur performer. The phrase gained popularity in the 1960s with the growth of talent shows and open-mic nights, reflecting tensions between stable work and creative aspirations. Its use in American English, especially in showbiz contexts, was cemented by TV shows like *The Gong Show*. Its relatable humor ensured its spread to broader contexts like business or sports.
- Variants
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- Don’t quit your day job
- Keep your day job
- Don’t give up your regular job
- Examples
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- Your singing was… interesting, but don’t give up the day job just yet.
- He tried stand-up comedy, but the crowd’s boos told him to keep his day job.
- Don’t quit your day job—your paintings are creative, but they won’t pay the bills.
- She launched a blog, but with few readers, she shouldn’t give up her regular job.
- Don’t give up the day job; your baking needs more practice before opening a shop.
- His dance moves were fun, but he was told to keep his day job by the judges.
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