It often implies:
* Lack of specialized skills: They don't have a specific area of expertise or training.
* Versatility: They could potentially learn any trade or adapt to different situations.
* Lack of direction: They might be unsure of their career path or have difficulty choosing a profession.
The expression is somewhat archaic and has a slightly negative connotation, suggesting a lack of purpose or direction.
Here are some examples of how it might be used:
* "He was not bred to any trade, so he ended up working odd jobs."
* "She was a bright young woman, but she was not bred to any trade and struggled to find a career that suited her."
The phrase emphasizes the importance of training and specialization in a society where careers are often defined by specific skills and knowledge.