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Learn the history and usage of the phrase 'Jack of all trades', which means a man who can do many things. Find out how it evolved from a neutral term to a derogatory one and see some related phrases and examples.
Origins. Robert Greene used the phrase "absolute Johannes Factotumen" rather than "Jack of all trades" in his 1592 booklet Greene's Groats-Worth of Wit, [1] to dismissively refer to actor-turned-playwright William Shakespeare; [2] this is the first published mention of Shakespeare. [3]
Learn the meaning and origin of the phrase "jack of all trades", which refers to a person who can handle various tasks but not excel in any. Find out how the phrase is used in sentences and how it differs from "jack of all trades, master of none".
They are often referred to as “jacks of all trades”. This idiom has been used for centuries to describe people who have knowledge and experience in multiple fields. The term “jack” refers to a general or common man, while “all trades” implies that the person has expertise in various areas.
Learn the definition, origin and usage of the idiom jack of all trades, master of none, which means a person who is good at many things but not excellent at any one. See examples from different contexts and languages.
The Origin Of The Phrase ‘Jack of All Trades’. The word “jack” can refer to the common, ordinary man. So with this expression, a “jack of all trades” basically means a “man of all jobs.” In other words, it’s someone that is competent at several different skills.
Jun 2, 2024 · Etymology. [edit] 1610s, from sense Jack (“man (generic term)”). Originally a term of praise (competent in many endeavors), today generally used disparagingly, with emphasis on (implied or stated) “master of none”, as in later longer form jack of all trades, master of none .
