PhrasesHub

Labour of love

    Definitions

      • to describe work done for the sake of enjoyment or satisfaction rather than for financial gain
        to refer to a task or activity that is pursued for personal fulfillment rather than monetary reward

    Examples of Labour of love

    • Sarah has spent countless hours researching and compiling a family tree that spans generations. It's a true labour of love as she's discovered hidden family secrets and connected with long-lost relatives.

      In this example, "labour of love" refers to the amount of time, effort, and emotional investment that Sarah has devoted to creating a family tree. The phrase implies that Sarah is not only working hard but is also deeply passionate about and committed to the project.

    • After years of saving and sacrificing, Jane finally closed the deal on her dream home. Despite the financial strain, she considers it a labour of love because she's seen it transform into the perfect space for her family.

      Here, "labour of love" refers to the effort and sacrifice that Jane has endured to achieve her goal of owning her dream home. The phrase highlights the emotional value and personal satisfaction that she derives from her hard work and commitment.

    • In order to create a healthier lifestyle, Jack has been dedicated to his exercise routine for over a year now. It's been a true labour of love, as he's seen the positive changes in his body and mind, and has come to enjoy the process.

      In this example, "labour of love" refers to the time and energy that Jack has devoted to his fitness regimen. The phrase underscores the sense of fulfillment and enjoyment that Jack has gained from his hard work, as well as the personal benefits he's reaped from taking care of his body and mind.

    • After years of toiling over her first novel, Lily finally saw it published. It was a labour of love, as she's spent countless sleepless nights and battle-hardened herself against criticism and self-doubt.

      In the final example, "labour of love" pertains to the immense dedication, perseverance, and emotional investment that Lily has given to her writing project. The phrase indicates that Lily's effort and passion for her work have been worthwhile, as she's achieved her goal of publishing a novel.

    • Jane spent countless hours tending to her garden, weeding, pruning, and watering each plant with care. It was a true labour of love, as she watched her flowers bloom and her fruits ripen.

      In this example, Jane's devotion to her garden is a "labour of love" because she is dedicating a significant amount of time and effort to it without expecting any immediate reward or compensation. She is doing it out of passion and love for the process and the end result.

    • For years, Sophia devoted herself to volunteering at the local children's shelter. She would arrive early in the morning, stay late into the night, and often work weekends as well. It was a true labour of love, as she watched the children grow and develop under her guidance.

      Again, Sophia's commitment to volunteering at the children's shelter is a "labour of love" because she is sacrificing her own time and energy to help others without expecting anything in return. Her love for the children and the cause is driving her actions.

    • Mark spent months researching and developing a new product for his company. He worked tirelessly, putting in long hours at the office every day. It was a true labour of love, as he poured his heart and soul into the project.

      Here, we see how the idiom can be applied to professional or work-related situations. Mark's passion for his project is what makes it a "labour of love". He is putting in a lot of hard work, not just for the company's benefit, but for the satisfaction of seeing the product come to fruition.

    • Olivia spent a week cooking and baking for her family, preparing elaborate meals and baking hundreds of cookies. It was a true labour of love, as she wanted to show her loved ones how much she cared.

      In this last example, we see how the idiom can be used for more personal relationships. Olivia's love for her family is driving her actions, making all the effort she's putting in a "labour of love". She's not doing it just because she's a good cook, but because she wants to express her feelings for her loved ones.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "labour of love" is used to signify work that is done out of passion or enjoyment, rather than for any financial benefit. It is often used to describe hobbies, creative pursuits, or volunteer activities that bring personal satisfaction and fulfillment. The expression conveys the idea that the work is not motivated by the desire for money, but rather by the love or passion for the activity itself.

    Origin of "Labour of love"

    The origin of the idiom "labour of love" can be traced back to the 14th century, where the word "labour" referred to any kind of exertion or effort. The addition of "of love" emphasizes the emotional connection or passion behind the work being done. The phrase has been used in various literary works and religious texts throughout history, and has become a common expression in the English language to describe work that is done out of love or passion. Its origins can be found in the idea that true fulfillment and satisfaction come from pursuing activities that are personally meaningful, rather than simply for financial gain. Examples of this idiom can be found in classic literature, where characters engage in creative or charitable pursuits purely for the joy it brings them, rather than for any external reward.