on the dole

Idioms are generally defined as groups of words that form a meaningful whole when they come together, even though the words in them do not make sense on their own. They have produced many idioms according to their own cultural characteristics in communities using the English language. What does on the dole mean? In what situations is on the dole used?

Meaning of "on the dole"

Meaning

The idiom “on the dole” is used to refer to someone who is unemployed and receiving government-funded welfare payments. It implies a sense of dependency and helplessness in the recipient of the welfare payments, as they are seen as being dependent on the government for basic needs. Additionally, the phrase has a sense of stigma attached to it, implying that those receiving welfare are either lazy or in some way undeserving.

Etymology

The phrase “on the dole” stems from the old English word “dole”, which originally referred to a portion of money given out in charity to the poor. Over time, the word evolved to refer to the government-funded welfare payments which are still in place today. The phrase “on the dole” came into use sometime in the early 20th century, with the earliest recorded use of the phrase dating back to 1918.

Usage

The phrase “on the dole” is typically used to refer to those who are unemployed and receiving government-funded welfare payments. However, it can also be used in a more derogatory fashion, referring to someone as being “on the dole” in a way that implies they are lazy or undeserving of the welfare payments they are receiving. Additionally, the phrase can be used in a more neutral fashion, simply referring to someone as being “on the dole” without making any judgement of their character.

Example Sentences

• My cousin has been on the dole since he lost his job last year.
• I don't think it's right to judge people who are on the dole.
• I don't want to be on the dole my whole life.

Idioms with similar meaning

"Don't judge a book by its cover" is an English idiom that means you shouldn't make assumptions about someone or something based solely on its appearance. In Japanese, the similar idiom is "Hana yori dango," which translates to "Dumplings rather than flowers." This idiom means that substance is more important than appearance.