What does 'take one for the team' mean?

Feifei: Have we got everything, Neil?

Neil: Think so. I've got the tickets,

most importantly. Would not want

to miss this concert!

Feifei: Let me see. One, two, three... Neil?

Neil: Yes?

Feifei: There are only three tickets.

You know Dan is coming too, right?

Neil: Really? Oh man. We're one short.

Feifei: What to do?

Neil: I don't know.

Feifei: Neil, it's OK. I'll take one for

the team. I'm a bit tired anyway.

Neil: Are you sure? I could...

Feifei: Don't worry. I know how much

you love this band!

Neil: Too kind. But before I head off,

let's explain the phrase Feifei used.

To 'take one for the team' is to give

something up for the benefit of others ...

usually for your friends or colleagues,

or your sports team, for example.

Feifei: I decided to let the others

go to the concert instead of me.

I took one for the team.

Neil: And I'm very grateful.

Now, listen to these examples.

There wasn't enough space in the car

for all of us, so Johnny took

one for the team and walked.

Valentyna injured her foot in

the first half of the game. She wanted

to continue playing,

but we decided that someone else

should play in the second half

to give us the best chance

of winning. Valentyna

took one for the team.

Sometimes you have to take one

for the team.

Last week I spent the day clearing out the

kitchen while the rest of

the family went to the beach.

Neil: You're listening to The English

We Speak from BBC Learning English.

In this programme,

we're looking at the expression 'take one

for the team'. Right, I'd better get going.

Feifei: Before you go, Neil

I just want to ask something.

Neil: Yes?

Feifei: We need someone to do the

late shift next week. I was wondering...

Neil: Feifei, don't you worry. I'll take

one for the team.

Feifei: I knew you would! Thanks, Neil.

Now, go and enjoy the show!

Neil: Bye.

Feifei: Bye.