The phrase “down to earth” describes practical, approachable people who prioritize relationships over possessions. It emerged in the early 20th century, possibly influenced by the film industry and a British saying. Despite sometimes being perceived as less educated, down-to-earth individuals are often highly educated and dismissive of class structures. They prioritize honesty and openness in their personal and professional lives.
“Down to earth” is one of several idiomatic expressions that are used to describe people and approaches that are practical and relatively free from any kind of pretension. Typically, a down-to-earth individual is someone who is very approachable and often a little modest about his or her accomplishments. Lifestyle choices are usually one of moderation as possessions are considered pleasurable but are not as important as people and relationships.
While there is some debate as to exactly when the phrase “down to earth” was first introduced, there is some evidence to support the emergence of the idiom in the early 20th century, in connection with the burgeoning film industry in the United States. Early fan magazines sometimes noted that some movie actors and actresses who made a lot of money chose to live relatively simplistic lives in terms of homes and cars, instead of living a lavish lifestyle. This was seen as a positive attribute, demonstrating practicality and allowed fans to relate more closely to their screen heroes.
There is also some evidence that “down to earth” has some connection to a common British saying, “close to the earth”. This UK expression is often applied to people living rural lifestyles that involve sometimes creative ways of recycling and using what they already have on hand, rather than buying new items whenever the need arises. The term is also sometimes applied to people who farm the land as a means of making a living, often living a lifestyle that is not constrained by the congestion and stress of city life.
Sometimes, a person who is considered down-to-earth can also be considered a little less educated, at least in terms of formal education. This is rarely the case, as many people who choose to be accessible to others and to live without too much excess are highly educated, both formally and in terms of practical experience. This perception, even if false, sometimes causes others to dismiss people down to earth or question the wisdom they have to offer.
Over the years, the term “down to earth” has come to be applied to nearly anyone who is considered unassuming in their relationships with other people and who chooses to live a comfortable but not excessive lifestyle. Down to earth people tend to be very approachable, enjoy being around people, and are often dismissive of any type of class structure within a community or society. These attributes often overflow from their personal lives and the way they choose to make a living or do business with others, giving the impression that they are honest and open as well as practical.
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