Explore the meaning, origins, and cultural significance of the phrase 'comes with the territory' in this comprehensive dictionary entry.
The phrase “comes with the territory” refers to an intrinsic aspect or unavoidable condition of a particular situation, role, or set of circumstances. It implies that certain challenges, responsibilities, or inconveniences are inherently associated with a given context and must be accepted as part of it. For example, in the context of customer service, dealing with difficult customers is often said to “come with the territory.”
The expression “comes with the territory” is believed to have originated in the second half of the twentieth century, initially pertaining to traveling salesmen. These individuals were assigned specific regions or “territories” and were expected to accept and manage whatever circumstances they encountered within those areas. Over time, the phrase transcended its original context and became applicable to a broader range of situations, symbolizing the acceptance of inherent conditions within various roles and contexts.
Semantically, “comes with the territory” conveys a sense of inevitability and acceptance. It suggests that certain aspects of a situation are unavoidable and must be embraced as part of the whole. The phrase can carry both neutral and slightly negative connotations, depending on the context, as it often implies dealing with challenges or inconveniences that are integral to a particular situation.
In contemporary culture, “comes with the territory” is frequently employed in professional and personal contexts to denote the acceptance of inherent challenges or responsibilities. The phrase is commonly used in literature, film, and everyday discourse to express the idea that certain difficulties are inextricably linked to specific roles or circumstances. For instance, in the business world, managing stress and long hours is often said to “come with the territory” of high-level executive positions.
The phrase “comes with the territory” is versatile and can be applied across various contexts. In professional settings, it often pertains to job-related challenges, while in personal contexts, it may refer to the inherent difficulties of relationships or life circumstances. In literature, it is used to underscore characters’ acceptance of their roles or fates.
The phrase “comes with the territory” remains relevant in contemporary discourse due to its applicability across diverse contexts. Its ability to succinctly convey the acceptance of inherent challenges ensures its continued usage in both formal and informal settings.
Durability: ★★★★☆
“You may not like dealing with difficult customers, but it comes with the territory.” - Common usage example
“In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun. You find the fun and snap! The job’s a game.” - P. L. Travers, Mary Poppins (though not a direct use of the phrase, it captures a similar sentiment of accepting inherent challenges)