Meaning of the word "near is my shirt, but nearer is my skin" in English
What does "near is my shirt, but nearer is my skin" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.
near is my shirt, but nearer is my skin
US /nɪr ɪz maɪ ʃɜrt, bʌt ˈnɪr.ər ɪz maɪ skɪn/
UK /nɪər ɪz maɪ ʃɜːt, bʌt ˈnɪər.ər ɪz maɪ skɪn/
Idiom
one's own interests and well-being, or those of one's family, come before those of others
Example:
•
I'd like to help the charity, but near is my shirt, but nearer is my skin, and I must pay my own bills first.
•
He decided not to lend the money, thinking near is my shirt, but nearer is my skin.