PhrasesHub

Well off

    Definitions

      • Wealthy or financially stable
        To describe someone who has a comfortable amount of money and can afford a comfortable lifestyle without financial stress or struggles

      • In a good or favorable position
        To describe someone who is doing well in life, whether it be in terms of financial stability, career success, or personal well-being

      • To be in a state of good health
        To describe someone who is physically and mentally well, often used in the context of asking about someone's well-being

    Examples of Well off

    • John is really well off. He has a luxurious mansion, a fleet of expensive cars, and goes on extravagant vacations every year.

      This idiom is used to describe someone who has a lot of wealth and financial resources. It implies that the person has more than enough money to live comfortably and indulge in luxurious lifestyles.

    • Sarah's parents are well off, so they were able to pay for her entire college education without any student loans.

      This example shows how the idiom can be used to describe the financial situation of a person's family or relatives. It implies that the family has enough money to cover the expenses of their children's education or other major expenses.

    • After inheriting a large sum of money from his grandfather, Tom suddenly became well off.

      This example shows how the idiom can be used to describe someone's sudden change in financial status. It implies that the person has recently come into a significant amount of wealth.

    • Despite being well off, Jane is very generous and often donates large sums of money to charity.

      This example shows how the idiom can be used to describe someone's financial situation in the context of their generosity. It implies that the person has enough money to be able to give generously to others.

    • The company's profits have been soaring, making it well off and enabling it to expand its operations.

      This example shows how the idiom can be used to describe the financial situation of a company or organization. It implies that the company has been making a lot of money and is in a strong financial position.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "well off" is commonly used to describe someone who is wealthy or financially stable. It can also be used to describe someone who is in a good or favorable position in life, whether it be in terms of financial success or overall well-being. Additionally, it can be used to inquire about someone's health and to express that they are in good physical and mental condition.

    Origin of "Well off"

    The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the 17th century. It is believed to have originated from the phrase "well up," which meant to have a good supply or abundance of something. Over time, this phrase evolved into "well off," which was first used in the context of financial stability and prosperity.

    The word "well" in this idiom refers to being in a good state or condition, while "off" means separated or removed from something. Therefore, being "well off" can be interpreted as being separated from financial struggles or removed from a state of poverty.

    It is also worth noting that the idiom "well off" is often used in comparison to the phrase "hard up," which means to be in a state of financial difficulty or poverty. This contrast further emphasizes the meaning of being financially stable and prosperous when using the idiom "well off."