jack-of-all-trades
UK[ˌdʒæk əv ɔːl ˈtreɪdz]US[ˌdʒæk əv ɔːl ˈtreɪdz]
n
a person who can do many different types of work, but who may not be an expert in any of them
Etymology
the phrase 'jack-of-all-trades' originated in the early 17th century, with 'jack' serving as a generic term for a common fellow, much like 'everyman'. the full original form was 'jack of all trades, master of none', highlighting the contrast between versatility and specialization. the term 'trade' derives from middle english, meaning a path or course of action, which evolved to signify a skilled craft or profession. thus, the phrase literally describes a man competent in many professions, though its modern meaning often carries the implicit (and sometimes omitted) critique of lacking mastery in any single one.
Analysis
this is a fixed idiomatic phrase. 'jack' is a common english given name historically used to refer to an ordinary man. 'of all' is a prepositional phrase meaning 'belonging to or involving every one of'. 'trades' is the plural of 'trade', meaning a skilled job or occupation.
Examples
in a small startup, you often have to be a jack-of-all-trades, handling marketing, accounting, and customer service.
while he's a talented jack-of-all-trades around the house, we still hire a specialist for complex electrical work.
her resume portrays her as a jack-of-all-trades, with experience in numerous different industries.