Know which side your bread is buttered

usgb
phrase

To understand where your interests lie or from whom or what you will benefit.

He's always nice to his boss because he knows which side his bread is buttered.
Visual representation of "know which side your bread is buttered" - To understand where your interests lie or from whom or what you will benefit.

Often appears as...

  • know one's bread is buttered
  • understand which side one's bread is buttered

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "know which side your bread is buttered"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Self-Interest

This phrase is used to indicate someone acts favorably towards those who can benefit them.

Illustration for Self-Interest
She praised her colleague's proposal, knowing which side her bread was buttered.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Situational Awareness

It's important to recognize the context where someone could have something to gain.

Illustration for Situational Awareness
At the company banquet, he knew which side his bread was buttered and stayed close to the executives.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Genuine

The phrase may imply that the person's actions or flattery aren't entirely sincere.

Illustration for Not Genuine
He complimented the chef, knowing which side his bread was buttered, although he disliked the meal.
Visual representation of the word "Know which side your bread is buttered"

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