PhrasesHub

What a piece of work is man

    Definitions

      • express awe or admiration
        Used to express wonder at the complexity and beauty of human beings, often in the face of their accomplishments or potential

      • express disappointment or frustration
        Used to express disappointment or frustration with human behavior or characteristics, often in the face of their flaws or shortcomings

    Examples of What a piece of work is man

    • As I watched him navigate through the crowded train car with ease, carrying a heavy backpack and balancing a cup of coffee without spilling a drop, I couldn't help but think, "What a piece of work is man!" He displayed such incredible efficiency and coordination in managing multiple tasks at once.

      The idiom "What a piece of work is man!" is used in this example to emphasize the impressive capabilities and multitasking abilities of humans. It is often used to highlight someone's remarkable performance or skills in a particular situation. In this instance, the speaker uses the idiom to admire the man's ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously with such ease and efficiency. The use of "man" in the idiom is gender-neutral and can be applied to both men and women.

    • Despite being diagnosed with a chronic illness and undergoing multiple surgeries and treatments, my friend continues to work full-time, care for her family, and maintain a social life. She truly is a remarkable "piece of work"!

      In this example, the speaker uses the idiom "What a piece of work is man!" to describe their friend's admirable resilience and perseverance in dealing with a serious illness while still managing the various demands of her personal and professional life. The use of "man" in the idiom is gender-neutral and can be applied to both men and women, emphasizing that the idiom is meant to highlight the remarkable achievements of individuals in general, regardless of their gender.

    • The CEO of the company delivered an exceptional speech at the annual shareholder's meeting, impressing everyone in attendance with his depth of knowledge, articulate communication skills, and captivating delivery. "What a piece of work is man!" I thought to myself, admiring his impressive performance.

      In this example, the speaker uses the idiom "What a piece of work is man!" to describe the exceptional qualities and talents of the CEO after watching him deliver an outstanding speech. The use of "man" in the idiom is gender-neutral and can be applied to both men and women, demonstrating that the idiom is meant to highlight the impressive qualities and achievements of individuals in general, regardless of their gender.

    • When our team was facing a seemingly insurmountable challenge at work, our leader stepped up and took charge, coming up with creative solutions and rallying the team to work together towards a successful outcome. In that moment, I couldn't help but think, "What a piece of work is man!"

      In this example, the speaker uses the idiom "What a piece of work is man!" to describe the impressive leadership qualities and problem-solving skills of their team leader during a challenging work situation. The use of "man" in the idiom is gender-neutral and can be applied to both men and women, emphasizing that the idiom is meant to highlight the remarkable qualities and achievements of individuals in general, regardless of their gender.

    • Despite all his flaws and imperfections, John is truly a what a piece of work is man. He may make mistakes, but he is determined and resilient, and his hard work and dedication have led him to success.

      This idiom, originated by Shakespeare in his play Hamlet, refers to the complexity and multifacetedness of human nature. It acknowledges that people are far from perfect, and may have weaknesses and flaws, but it also celebrates their strength, resourcefulness, and capacity for growth and improvement. By calling someone a "what a piece of work is man", we are emphasizing their unique character and the impressive qualities that make them stand out. In this case, John's persistence and tenacity are being highlighted as a testament to his innate humanity and his capacity for success.

    • Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks, Emma has proven time and time again to be a true Renaissance man. She's a skilled artist, a talented musician, an accomplished writer, and an avid athlete. Her versatility and drive are a testament to the boundless potential that lies within all of us, as Shakespeare once observed: "What a piece of work is man! How noble in reason! How infinite in faculties! In form and moving how express and admirable! How like an angel in apprehension! How like a god! The beauty of the world!" (EXAMPLE)

      In this example, the use of the idiom "What a piece of work is man" serves to highlight the remarkable abilities and potential of individuals like Emma. The phrase draws on Shakespeare's observation in his play "Hamlet" that humans are multifaceted and endowed with many talents and faculties. The comparison to a "piece of work" emphasizes the complexity and value of human beings, with "man" here used to refer to both men and women. The phrase is often used to describe people who are highly skilled or talented in multiple areas, and who embody the idea that humans are capable of achieving great things. In Emma's case, her versatility and accomplishments in multiple fields are a testament to her own unique "piece of work."


    Conclusion

    The idiom "What a piece of work is man" can be used to express both awe and admiration for the complexity and potential of human beings, as well as disappointment or frustration with their flaws and shortcomings. It is a versatile expression that can convey a range of emotions and perspectives on the nature of humanity.

    Origin of "What a piece of work is man"

    The phrase "What a piece of work is man" comes from William Shakespeare's play "Hamlet," specifically from a monologue by the character Hamlet in Act 2, Scene 2. In this soliloquy, Hamlet is expressing his disillusionment with the human race, contrasting the noble and divine aspects of humanity with its base and corrupt nature. The phrase has since become a common idiom used to reflect on the complexities and contradictions of human nature. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the timeless themes and insights found in Shakespeare's works.