Bums on seats

Definitions

• Encouragement
  To motivate or incentivize someone to attend an event or activity by emphasizing the importance of having a large audience or turnout

• Quantity over quality
  To prioritize the number of people present rather than the value or impact they bring

• Lack of action
  Describing a situation or event where there is inaction or a lack of progress, often due to a lack of motivation or engagement from those involved

Examples of Bums on seats

Conclusion

The idiom "bums on seats" is commonly used in a variety of contexts, but all share a common thread of emphasizing the importance of having a large audience or turnout. In some cases, it is used as a form of encouragement to motivate people to attend an event or activity. In others, it highlights the idea of quantity over quality, prioritizing the number of people present rather than their impact or value. Additionally, it can also be used to describe a situation where there is a lack of action or progress due to a lack of motivation or engagement from those involved.

Origin of "Bums on seats"

The origin of the idiom "bums on seats" is not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in the entertainment industry, specifically in the theater world. It was first used in the late 19th century to refer to the importance of having a full audience in order to make a show successful. The phrase became more widely known in the mid-20th century, particularly in the UK, where it was commonly used to describe the importance of a large audience in the film industry.

The idiom is thought to have a literal meaning, as having "bums on seats" refers to the physical presence of people in seats. However, over time, it has taken on a more metaphorical meaning, emphasizing not just the physical presence, but also the engagement and impact of the audience. Today, it is used in various settings, from business meetings to political rallies, to emphasize the importance of having a large and engaged audience for success.