I think seanmcq is referring to the implication that "getting by" means subsistence wage (of the wife). I don't think it was a sexist statement, but rather the

I think seanmcq is referring to the implication that "getting by" means subsistence wage (of the wife). I don't think it was a sexist statement, but rather the focus is on "getting by." It could've been "getting by on his partner's wage" (if he were homosexual).