Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[student teacher]

Hi, teachers,

"The rush to commodities as a financial asset has taken on a life of its own."

What does "taken on a life of its own" mean?

Regards.

[CP]

It has assumed a new importance, or has become something worthwhile or noteworthy all on its own, whereas before it was unimportant or unnoticed.

Tom Cruise's off-screen behavior has become more and more bizarre, so that it has taken on a life of its own -- it is the subject of jokes and discussions and inquiries, and it got him fired from his studio.
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You live a new life for every new language you speak. -Czech proverb

[student teacher]

Dear Mr./Ms. CP,

Thank you for your reply.
It has been great help for me.

By the way, may I ask you one more question?
In your words of "has become something worthwhile or noteworthy all on its own", what does "all" (of all on its own) work here?

Sincerely,