The government keeps the public happy with bread and circuses.
bread and circuses
idiomFood and entertainment provided by the state, particularly if intended to placate the people.
Origin
disputed originCalque of Latin panem et circenses, a reference to Satire 10 of the Roman poet Juvenal’s Satires (early 2nd century C.E.). The relevant passage states: “… nam qui dabat olim imperium, fasces, legiones, omnia, nunc se continet atque duas tantum res anxius optat, panem et circenses” (“[F]or that sovereign people that once gave away military command, consulships, legions, and every thing, now bridles its desires, and limits its anxious longings to two things only,—bread, and the games of the circus!”). Juvenal was commenting that the Roman people no longer cared for political involvement, and were satisfied with cheap food and entertainment provided by politicians.
Critics argue that the new stadium project is just bread and circuses to distract voters from the failing economy.
The cynical leader maintained his grip on power by providing the restless population with nothing more than bread and circuses, effectively silencing any political dissent.
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a little bit of bread and no cheese
Used to represent the song of the yellowhammer (Emberiza citrinella).
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best thing since sliced bread
Alternative form of greatest thing since sliced bread.
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bread and butter
That which is central or fundamental, as to one's business, survival, or income; a staple or cornerstone.
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bread of life
Anything which is regarded as a source or inspiration of spiritual nourishment.
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brown bread
Dead.
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burn bread
To cause something unfortunate to happen to (someone) by mentioning it; to jinx something for (someone).
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butter one's bread on both sides
To profit from two things at the same time, especially when those things seem contradictory or incompatible.
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cast one's bread upon the waters
To perform a kind deed or favor without the motivation of any immediate reward or benefit to oneself, though with the possibility of eventual future return.