The expression «the most ancient profession» originated in England in the 18 th century. Since the end of the XIX century, due to Kipling this name has been applied to prostitution. The expression «the second oldest profession» arose in the middle of the twentieth century. It
means journalism (in Russia), politics or espionage (in English-speaking
countries).
Keywords
phraseological units; journalism; politics; espionage; Kipling; Robert Sylvester.