earn my keep

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "earn my keep" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express the idea of working hard or contributing in order to justify one's presence or support, often in a household or workplace context. Example: "I want to make sure I earn my keep by contributing to the team's success with my skills and efforts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

The only thing I had to do to earn my keep in Media was mow Ken and Joan's extensive lawn.

The New Yorker

I'd go four months to the States, able to earn my keep there, and come back home.

The Economist

"After a while I became a little bored and to earn my keep, I got a job in one restaurant or another," she said, "making salades nicoise, omelets and crepes in pseudo-French bistro-type establishments" for nearly four years.

The New York Times

Friede was cosmopolitan and bohemian, whereas I was a young man who came from the wrong side of town lacking either education or a trade to earn my keep.

The Guardian - Opinion

The Internet not only sells more books for me, it also gives me more opportunities to earn my keep through writing-related activities.

Forbes

Being a writer has given me unprecedented joy and purpose by letting me earn my keep (if only just) by learning about interesting, impactful topics and discussing them.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

But after my A-levels, I took off to Italy, travelling by train and earning my keep by waiting tables.

The Times

But by my third year with the team, I had kind of earned my keep and got along well with great players like Graig Nettles, Willie Randolph, Lou Piniella and Dave Winfield.

The New York Times

Wouldn't you assume that the designers were endowed with some alchemical or shamanistic power?" Quoting Mr. Dyer is so easy that I feel sheepish about it, as if I were not quite earning my keep.

The New York Times

"I know right now I haven't earned my keep There is a step I haven't reached yet, but I don't think I'll ever be like 'I've done enough.' It's more of a lifestyle.

Forbes

I've held the hands of many clients through a variety of ups and downs during my 25 years as a financial planner, but I've really been earning my keep lately, while also having to manage my own strong emotions.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "earn my keep", ensure the context implies a reciprocal relationship where effort justifies support or resources received.

Common error

Avoid using "earn my keep" when there is no expectation of reciprocation or exchange. If the context does not involve an exchange of effort for something received, a different phrase might be more accurate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "earn my keep" primarily functions as an idiomatic expression. It signifies the act of working or contributing sufficiently to justify one's support, resources, or presence. This is supported by Ludwig's examples, which demonstrate its use in diverse contexts, from domestic responsibilities to professional contributions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

33%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "earn my keep" is a common idiomatic expression used to convey the idea of contributing effort in exchange for support or resources. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and provides numerous examples across various contexts. While its register is generally informal, it is widely understood and used in everyday language. When choosing this phrase, consider the reciprocal relationship implied and ensure it aligns with the intended message. Consider alternatives such as "pull my weight" or "contribute my share" if a more neutral or formal tone is desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pull my weight

Focuses on contributing an equal share of effort.

do my part

Stresses fulfilling one's responsibility within a larger effort.

contribute my share

Highlights the act of providing a portion of the required effort or resources.

make a contribution

Emphasizes making a positive impact or adding value.

deserve my place

Underscores the worthiness of occupying a certain position.

justify my existence

Emphasizes the need to validate one's presence or role.

validate my role

Highlights the need to confirm the importance and legitimacy of one's position.

pay my way

Highlights the aspect of covering one's own expenses.

be self-supporting

Emphasizes financial independence and self-sufficiency.

be productive

Focuses on generating outputs and achieving results.

FAQs

How can I use "earn my keep" in a sentence?

You can use "earn my keep" to express the idea of working hard to justify your presence or the resources you're using. For example, "I want to "earn my keep" by helping with the household chores."

What can I say instead of "earn my keep"?

You can use alternatives like "pull my weight", "contribute my share", or "pay my way" depending on the context.

Is "earn my keep" formal or informal?

"Earn my keep" is generally considered an informal expression, suitable for everyday conversation and less formal writing. In professional contexts, consider alternatives like "contribute effectively" or "justify my position".

What's the difference between "earn my keep" and "pull my weight"?

While both phrases suggest contributing effort, "earn my keep" often implies a direct exchange for support or resources. "Pull my weight" simply means contributing an equal share of the work without necessarily implying a direct exchange.