English Idiom – The lion’s share.
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.
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Look it upLion’s shareWiktionaryWhat 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.
Love animal idioms? See our full list of 50 animal idioms in English, with meanings and examples.
Frequently Asked Questions
The largest part of something.
From an old fable in which a lion takes most of the prey for himself because he is the strongest.
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