Explore the origins, historical context, and contemporary relevance of the phrase 'to get/give the sack,' a colloquial expression denoting dismissal from employment.
To “get the sack” or “give the sack” refers to the act of being dismissed from employment or dismissing someone from their job. This colloquial expression conveys the termination of one’s professional duties, either as the recipient or the initiator of the action.
The phrase “to get/give the sack” likely originated in the seventeenth century or earlier, with its roots traceable to French influences. During this period, laborers often provided their own tools, which they carried in a bag, or sac in French. Upon dismissal, these workers would take their bags with them, symbolizing the end of their employment. This etymological connection is supported by Randle Cotgrave’s 1611 dictionary, which includes the phrase “On luy a donné son sac,” referring to a servant dismissed by their master. The expression also has parallels in Dutch linguistic traditions. A more recent synonym, “to get/give the ax,” emerged in the latter half of the 1800s, drawing an analogy to the executioner’s ax.
The phrase “to get/give the sack” carries connotations of abruptness and finality. It implies a severance from one’s professional responsibilities, often with an undertone of inevitability or harshness. The expression can be employed in both formal and informal contexts, though it retains a somewhat informal, colloquial flavor.
In contemporary culture, “to get/give the sack” appears in various forms of media, including literature, film, and everyday discourse. The phrase is often used to describe situations involving job loss, whether due to performance issues, economic downturns, or organizational restructuring. It may also be used humorously or metaphorically to describe the ending of non-professional relationships or endeavors.
In professional settings, “to get/give the sack” may be replaced by more formal terms such as “dismissal” or “termination.” In social contexts, the phrase can be used metaphorically to describe the end of relationships or projects, often with a humorous or lighthearted tone.
The phrase “to get/give the sack” remains relevant in modern discourse, particularly in discussions of employment and labor relations. Its vivid imagery and historical roots contribute to its enduring appeal. Durability rating: ★★★★☆
“He was given the sack for incompetence, and he took it very badly.” - P. G. Wodehouse, The Inimitable Jeeves (1923)
“The poor devil got the sack, and now he’s in a bad way.” - Charles Dickens, Hard Times (1854)