Idiom – Lion’s Share

English Idiom – The Lion’s Share

Meaning – The majority.  This idiom is used to describe the largest part of something.

This idiom possibly originates from a story or fable about a greedy lion. In this story a lion goes hunting with a fox. After they catch an animal the lion awards himself most of the prey because he is the stronger animal. The lion gets the biggest share – the lion’s share.

Looking for animal idioms? Check out our top ten animal idioms!

Usage:

When could you use this idiom?

• Somebody does the majority of work on a project.
• A person is not doing their share of a job.
• You are feeling unhappy because your sibling got a larger share of dessert!

Example:

• Tim: Mum! Why does Harry get more pocket money than me? I want to buy new kicks but I’m skint.
• Mum: Because Harry does the lion’s share of the housework! You are too lazy.

In The News:

• Elite schools receive lion’s share of funds as others struggle

Discuss:

• Is there an idiom like this in your country?

What is an idiom?

An idiom is a word or phrase that is not taken literally.  An idiom is an expression that cannot be understood from the meanings of its individual words, but has a separate meaning of its own.