Roll up one's sleeves meaning

To "roll up one's sleeves" means to prepare to work hard or get involved in a task.


Roll up one's sleeves definitions

Word backwards llor pu s'eno seveels
Part of speech This phrase is a verb phrase comprised of a verb ("roll up") and a possessive pronoun indicating ownership ("one's").
Syllabic division roll up one's sleeves roll up | one's | sleeves
Plural The plural of the phrase "roll up one's sleeves" is "roll up one's sleeves."
Total letters 17
Vogais (3) o,u,e
Consonants (6) r,l,p,n,s,v

What Does It Mean to "Roll Up One's Sleeves"?

When someone says they are going to "roll up their sleeves," it is a figurative way of saying they are ready to tackle a task or get to work. This expression implies a readiness to put in the necessary effort to accomplish a goal, often involving hard work and determination.

Origin of the Phrase

The origins of the phrase "rolling up one's sleeves" can be traced back to the idea of preparing for physical labor. In the past, people would roll up their sleeves before engaging in tasks that required manual labor, such as farming, construction, or household chores. It became a symbol of readiness and determination to get the job done.

Symbolism and Meaning

Rolling up one's sleeves is symbolic of getting down to business and taking action. It signifies a willingness to put in the hard work and effort needed to achieve a goal. By rolling up their sleeves, a person is demonstrating their commitment to doing whatever it takes to succeed.

Physical and Mental Preparation

While the act of rolling up one's sleeves is a physical gesture, it also represents a mental readiness to face challenges head-on. It shows a person's preparedness to confront obstacles and overcome them with determination and perseverance. The phrase highlights the importance of being proactive and taking initiative in achieving one's objectives.

Embracing Hard Work and Determination

Rolling up one's sleeves is not just about getting physically ready for a task; it also signifies a mindset of hard work and dedication. It encourages individuals to approach their responsibilities with a can-do attitude and a willingness to put in the effort required for success. By embodying this spirit, people can overcome obstacles and reach their full potential.


Roll up one's sleeves Examples

  1. Before tackling the dirty dishes, she had to roll up her sleeves.
  2. In order to fix the leaky faucet, the plumber had to roll up his sleeves.
  3. To prepare for the upcoming exam, the student needed to roll up his sleeves and study hard.
  4. The chef was ready to start cooking once he rolled up his sleeves.
  5. At the construction site, workers often roll up their sleeves to get the job done.
  6. Before starting the project, the team leader encouraged everyone to roll up their sleeves and work together.
  7. To clean the house thoroughly, she decided to roll up her sleeves and get to work.
  8. The farmers had to roll up their sleeves and work hard to harvest the crops before the storm arrived.
  9. Before the big presentation, the CEO rolled up his sleeves to ensure everything was perfect.
  10. To tackle the overgrown garden, she had to roll up her sleeves and grab the gardening tools.


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  • Updated 08/05/2024 - 00:20:58