| 释义 |
serve two masters serve two mastersTo simultaneously tend to or support or devote oneself to two different—often conflicting—responsibilities, pursuits, ideas, or people. It comes from the Biblical phrase, "No man can serve two masters." You need to decide if you are married to your wife or to your work because you simply cannot serve two masters.See also: master, serve, twoserve two masters FORMALIf a person or organization tries to serve two masters, they try to be loyal to two opposing principles, beliefs or organizations. An organization such as the BBC can either make a profit or provide an excellent public service. It cannot, however, be asked to serve two masters. Note: This expression is used in the Bible. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus says: `No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other.' (Matthew 6:24, Luke 16:13) See also: master, serve, twoserve two masters take orders from two superiors or follow two conflicting or opposing principles or policies at the same time. This phrase alludes to the warning given in the Bible against trying to serve both God and Mammon (Matthew 6:24).See also: master, serve, twoserve two ˈmasters (usually used in negative sentences) support two opposing parties, principles, etc. at the same time: Government ministers are not allowed to work for private companies as nobody can serve two masters at once.This expression comes from the Bible.See also: master, serve, two |