The lion's share
The lion's share means the largest part of something, such as money, credit, or work; it comes from the story of a lion dividing a catch with other animals in Aesop's fables. Today it usually means most of something, not necessarily all of it.
Where it comes from
A powerful animal takes everything
The phrase comes from the story of a lion hunting with other animals. Versions differ, but the lion uses his power to deny his companions a fair portion.
In Aesop's Fables, the lion divides the hunted animal into portions, then gives reasons for claiming them himself. His companions cannot safely challenge him.
In Aesop's Fables; A New Translation by Aesop
The largest portion today
Today the phrase means the biggest portion, whether someone takes it unfairly, earns it, or simply receives it. It can describe a burden as well as a reward, such as doing most of the work.
In Fables, La Fontaine retells the story with a heifer, a goat, and a sheep sharing a hunt with a lion. The lion claims every portion of the stag, a harsher outcome than the phrase usually suggests today.
In Fables by Jean de La Fontaine
How to use The lion's share
- Use it for the largest part of a shared total.
- Name what is being divided, such as work, money, or attention.
- Make clear whether the share is fair or unfair.
Does the lion's share mean all of something?
It usually means most of something, not all of it. The lion in the fable takes everything, but everyday use is less strict. Someone who does the lion's share of the work does much more than the others, though others may still help.
Does the phrase always suggest unfairness?
No, the phrase does not always suggest unfairness. Its source is a story about power and unequal treatment, but today it can simply describe the largest portion. A person might fairly receive the lion's share of the credit after doing most of the work.
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