clogs to clogs in three generations en · X
Etymology
From the common use of clogs by manual workers in north England and following the style of similar phrases which have been attested since 1700. The particular phrasing is perhaps of Lancashire origin. Compare shirtsleeves to shirtsleeves in three generations.
Meanings
- (UK) Wealth earned in one generation seldom lasts through the third (grandchild's) generation.
Synonyms
sandals to sandals in three generations · goon to Grange to goon · the third generation ruins the house · stables to stars to stables (Italian origin) · wealth does not survive three generations · shirtsleeves to shirtsleeves in three generations
Translations (3)
cmn 富不過三代 /富不过三代 (wealth earned in one generation seldom lasts) · fi minkä yksi sukupolvi rakentaa, sen toinen kasvattaa ja kolmas hävittää (wealth earned in one generation seldom lasts) · de erwerben, vererben, verderben (wealth earned in one generation seldom lasts)