βγάζω τα προς το ζην

Translations

• to make a living
• to earn one's bread
• to make ends meet

Literal Translation

to take out the things for the living

Forms

Usage Notes

Often conjugated in past tense as 'έβγαζε/έβγαιναν τα προς το ζην'. Can be used with various subjects. The 'τα' refers to unspecified things/money needed for survival.

Etymology

From ancient Greek 'προς το ζην' meaning 'for living/survival'. The phrase combines the verb 'βγάζω' (to take out/produce) with the classical expression for sustenance.

Cultural Context

A common Greek expression used to describe earning money for basic survival needs. Often used when discussing modest income or subsistence-level work.

• Think 'bringing out what's needed for life' - you're extracting/producing what you need to live
• Remember 'ζην' sounds like 'zen' - you need to be at peace with making just enough to survive