half a loaf

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half a loaf

less than what is wanted or is right. I didn't get everything I wanted in my contract but decided to accept half a loaf and not fight it.

Usage notes: the full form of this idiom is half a loaf is better than none getting less than what you wanted is better than getting nothing: The new ferry service operates only on weekends, but half a loaf is better than none.

Etymology: based on the idea that it is better to have some bread to eat than none at all

See also: half, loaf

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? References in classic literature
Mr Swiveller,' said Quilp, 'being pretty well accustomed to the agricultural pursuits of sowing wild oats, Miss Sally, prudently considers that half a loaf is better than no bread. The Old Curiosity Shop by Dickens, Charles View in context Holding the door of the wood-lodge ajar, she looked in and extended to him half a loaf of white bread--'such bread as the rich eat in my country,' he used to say. Amy Foster by Conrad, Joseph View in context More results

References in classic literature

Mr Swiveller,' said Quilp, 'being pretty well accustomed to the agricultural pursuits of sowing wild oats, Miss Sally, prudently considers that half a loaf is better than no bread.

The Old Curiosity Shop by Dickens, Charles View in context

Holding the door of the wood-lodge ajar, she looked in and extended to him half a loaf of white bread--'such bread as the rich eat in my country,' he used to say.

Amy Foster by Conrad, Joseph View in context

More results

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half a loaf
Half a loaf is better than none
half the battle
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half-hearted
half-heartedly
half-wit

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