Jobs for the boys

usgb
phrase

Giving jobs to friends or relatives, especially in politics, without considering their abilities to do them well.

The politician was accused of 'jobs for the boys' when he assigned all key positions to his close allies.
Visual representation of "jobs for the boys" - Giving jobs to friends or relatives, especially in politics, without considering their abilities to do them well.

Often appears as...

  • accused of jobs for the boys
  • practice jobs for the boys

Usage tips

Informal, Disapproving

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "jobs for the boys"
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Political Connotation

The phrase often implies unethical behavior in governmental or organizational appointments.

Illustration for Political Connotation
The mayor's latest appointments smacked of 'jobs for the boys', ignoring more qualified candidates.
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Informal Usage

It's colloquial and not suitable for formal writing, such as academic essays or formal reports.

Illustration for Informal Usage
He chuckled about how the firm's hiring was just 'jobs for the boys'.
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Negative Implications

Using the phrase suggests disapproval and hints that the process is not based on merit.

Illustration for Negative Implications
Everyone knew it was 'jobs for the boys', given how the boss hired his incompetent friends.
Visual representation of the word "Jobs for the boys"

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