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Anyway, the original expression is "live and let live"; it is a way of saying that one should let other people live and behave the way they want to and not criticise them for being different.

"I don't understand why they want to live in that small, run-down apartment. Give me a million dollars and I still wouldn't want to live there."

"They have been living there for decades, live and let live."

The headline that will be used in today's column reads "Ready to live up to pledge, Kim tells Bush".

When we talk about someone or something living up to what they were expected or desired to be or do, they were as good as they were expected or desired to be.

I heard that the host did not have any experience regarding light-and-sound shows; I doubt the event will live up to our expectations.

Samuel, who enjoys partying, was invited to James' birthday bash; but he was not sure if it was a good idea because James is very stingy. Samuel did not think the party would live up to his expectations. But he was wrong; Samuel lived it up at James' birthday party. He had a jolly good time with good food and drinks.

Somebody like Samuel who enjoys partying and going out a lot could easily live beyond his means; he spends more money than he actually has. It is the opposite to "living within one's means" - to spend less money than the amount one earns.

Harry can afford to live beyond his means now because he has rich parents to back him up. 

We spend carefully and always live within our means.

 

Complete the sentences using the expressions explained:

1. After two years of hard work, she finally … the academic standards of the prestigious university.

2. Smith has always … and managed to save up enough for his early retirement.

3. "I found it odd that Linda and her husband never go out together, not even for a walk."

"Come on, … ."

4. The trip was superb; we were … until the last minute.

5. If you jot down your daily spending; you won't run the risk of …

Answers: 1. lived up to; 2. lived within his means; 3. live and let live; 4. living it up; 5. living beyond your means.

By Parnsap Yomanage