keep the wolf from the door

Register · Neutral Neutral — appropriate in most situations, both spoken and written, without sounding too casual or too stiff. CEFR B2

Post

Example

“During the slow season, Elena took extra shifts to keep the wolf from the door.”

Dictionary details

Component words

keep wolf door

Tags

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

keep up appearances Neutral · CEFR B2

To preserve an outward impression that everything is normal or successful despite underlying trouble.

cry wolf Neutral · CEFR B1

to give false warnings so often that a real warning may later be ignored

at death's door Neutral · CEFR B2

so seriously ill or injured that death seems close

keep a straight face Neutral · CEFR B2

To remain serious and avoid smiling or laughing in an amusing or awkward moment.

keep the lights on Neutral · CEFR B2

to do just enough work to keep a business running, without growth or improvement

show someone the door Neutral · CEFR B2

to dismiss someone or make it clear that they must leave

Source methodology

Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.

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