by-trade

by-trade

A carpenter also works as a by-trade clock repairer.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • Subsidiary occupation or business: "by-trade" refers to a secondary or additional occupation that someone engages in alongside their main profession or trade. It is typically less central to their livelihood but provides extra income or skill development.
Usage Examples
  • Noun:
    • He is a carpenter by main trade, but he also has a by-trade as a beekeeper. (His primary job is carpentry, and his secondary occupation is beekeeping.)
    • Many farmers take up a by-trade, such as blacksmithing, to supplement their income during off-seasons. (Farmers pursue an additional occupation to earn money when farming is less active.)
Advanced Usage

  • "to practice a by-trade": to engage in a secondary occupation.

    • She practices a by-trade as a freelance writer while working as a teacher. (She does freelance writing in addition to her main teaching job.)

  • "by-trade skills": skills associated with a secondary occupation.

    • His by-trade skills in electronics repair helped him fix old radios for the community. (His additional skills in electronics are used for community service.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Trade (n): a skilled job, typically one requiring manual skills and special training.

    • He learned the trade of plumbing from his father. (He acquired the skill of plumbing.)

  • By-employment (n): a synonym for "by-trade", meaning a secondary job.

    • Gardening is her by-employment, though she works as a nurse. (Gardening is her additional occupation.)
Synonyms
  • Side job: an additional job outside one's primary employment.
  • Supplementary occupation: an occupation that adds to one's main source of income.
  • Second job: a job held in addition to a primary job.
Related Idioms

  • Jack of all trades: a person who can do many different types of work but may not be an expert in any.

    • He is a jack of all trades, with his main job as a mechanic and a by-trade in carpentry. (He has multiple skills, including a secondary occupation.)

  • Moneymaking side hustle: a informal phrase for a secondary source of income.

    • Her by-trade as a pet sitter is a convenient moneymaking side hustle. (Her secondary job as a pet sitter earns extra money.)