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.

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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.
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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.