The shirt off somebody’s back
phrase
To give someone anything they want, even if it leaves you with nothing.
John would give you the shirt off his back if you asked him, he is really kind.
Often appears as...
- give the shirt off his back
- take the shirt off her back
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
To give someone anything they want, even if it leaves you with nothing.
John would give you the shirt off his back if you asked him, he is really kind.
Often appears as...
- give the shirt off his back
- take the shirt off her back
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Literal Meaning
This phrase is not about actual shirts but describes someone willing to give anything to help.
Though it's an expression, no one's really expecting you to give away your clothes.
Pro Tip 2/3Figurative Generosity
Use this phrase to highlight selfless generosity, even if it's not a material object given.
Without hesitation, he gave the shirt off his back by donating his last $10 to the charity.
Pro Tip 3/3Not Literal
Don't misinterpret the phrase; it's not about helping at a cost to one's basic needs.
She offered the shirt off her back, but she still made sure her own children were fed first.
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