ENGLISH
REFERENCE

tide over

idiom
Meaning

To support or sustain (someone), especially financially, for a limited period.


Examples
SIMPLE

Can you lend me ten dollars to tide me over until payday?

CONTEXTUAL

I have enough savings to tide me over for a few months while I look for a new job.

COMPLEX

The small emergency grant was intended only to tide the displaced family over until they could secure more permanent housing and employment.

Anchors to
Related idioms2entries
  1. 01

    stem the tide

    To slow or stop the flow of something.

  2. 02

    turn the tide

    To undergo a change or reversal of a general trend.

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