do one’s bit

D

do one’s bit,
also, do one’s part

Meaning

• to do a share of a task.
• to make an individual contribution to an overall effort.
• to make a small but expected contribution to a larger goal.
• to share in a small part of a responsibility to achieve something important.

Example Sentences

1. When people can “do their bit“, they are helping support a larger cause.
2. We can achieve more together when each person can do their bit.
3. The local blood bank called on everyone to do their bit by donating blood on Friday.
4. If survival is a serious matter, everyone must do their bit.
5. She always tries to do her bit to make the world a better place.
6. Noah was eager to do his bit and started teaching English online during the pandemic.
7. Authorities advise not relying solely on the police and to do your bit to obtain any evidence that may be useful.
8. I’ve tried to do my bit to help the team win.

Origin

“Do one’s bit” comes from Britain. People also use “do one’s part.” Both idioms mean the same thing. Its use changes depending on the speaker. The British use of “do one’s bit” can mean “to share responsibility.” It’s a way to get people to contribute or volunteer for something. It’s used to remind people to take a small action to achieve a big result.

Many fundraising organizations will ask previous and potential donors to “do their bit” to help raise money for charities. The general idea is to help people focus on a smaller task or action that they can contribute to. When enough people “do their bit” of a smaller task, they get closer to achieving a larger goal.

Synonym

• to assist
• lend a hand

Help, Task, Work