A Piece of the Action
Definition: A share, usually meaning a financial share. This term originated as U.S. show business slang and referred from the 1920s onward to investing in a production and thereby sharing in the profits. From the 1960s, it was applied to other endeavors as well.
Example: “What’s it got to do with her if you sell your piece of the action?” — Emma Lathen, Murder Without Icing, 1972.
Synonyms and Similar Terms
- Stake: An interest or share in an endeavor.
- Cut: A portion of proceeds, especially referring to money.
- Share: Partaking in something distributed.
Antonyms
- Exclusion: The act of denying someone access to the benefits of a shared endeavor.
- Monopoly: Complete control over a trade or service, with no sharing.
Related Expressions
- Get in on the ground floor: Starting at the very beginning, usually to gain a deserved part of future profits.
- Skin in the game: Having a personal investment or interest in the outcome.
Humor-Filled Quotes
- “I’ve got a piece of the action, and it sure is tastier than pie!”
- “I want a slice of the pie, but could someone please pass the whipped cream too?”
Proverbs
- “Many hands make light work”: Suggesting collaboration brings easier success.
- “Share and share alike”: Fairly distribute the gains among those involved.
Literature & Media Suggestions
- Books: Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki - illustrates the value of investment.
- Movies: Wall Street - where characters seek their piece of the financial pie.
- Songs: “I Want it All” by Queen, a rock anthem about grabbing opportunities.
Inspirational Farewell
And remember, success is sweetest when shared. A piece of the action tastes better when savored together!
### Which of these is a synonym for "a piece of the action"?
- [x] Stake
- [ ] Oven mitt
- [ ] Butter knife
- [ ] Space helmet
> **Explanation:** "Stake" is a synonym for "a piece of the action," meaning an interest or share in an endeavor.
### Which expression means personal investment?
- [ ] Jump into the fire
- [x] Skin in the game
- [ ] Fly on the wall
- [ ] Link in the chain
> **Explanation:** "Skin in the game" means having a personal investment or risk in the outcome, just like having a piece of the action.
### True or False: "A piece of the action" originally referred to indulgence in spectacular theater shows.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** The term actually originated in U.S. show business slang, firstly referring to investing in productions to share the profits. So it was financial, not indulgent!
