Meaning
"Can't have your cake and eat it too"라는 표현은 두 가지를 동시에 가질 수 없다는 의미를 담고 있습니다. 즉, 어떤 하나의 선택을 하면 다른 선택을 포기해야 한다는 상황을 설명할 때 사용됩니다. 예를 들어, 돈을 저축하면서 동시에 큰 지출을 할 수는 없다는 점을 강조할 때 이 표현을 쓸 수 있습니다.
이 표현은 주로 상충되는 두 가지 욕망이나 목표를 동시에 이룰 수 없다는 것을 경고하거나 상기시키는 상황에서 사용됩니다. 예를 들어, '안정된 직장'과 '자유로운 삶'을 동시에 추구하는 것은 어려울 수 있습니다. 이러한 맥락에서 "Can't have your cake and eat it too"라고 말할 수 있습니다.
일상 대화에서 이 표현은 누군가가 서로 배치되는 두 가지를 동시에 원할 때, 이를 경고하거나 조언하는 방식으로 자주 사용됩니다. 따라서 이 표현을 이해하고 적절히 사용하면, 의사소통의 명확성을 높일 수 있습니다.
Example
She thought she could be married and have a boyfriend on the side. To all the cheaters I say, you can't have your cake and eat it too.
You hate paying taxes but then complain about the services that your taxes pay for. Can't have your cake and eat it too!
I wish I could eat whatever I want but never gain weight. Why can't I have my cake and eat it too?
Music Idioms - Can't have your cake and eat it too
See how idioms can be applied to out everyday conversations and even song lyrics too.
Quiz
What is an Idiom
An idiom is a phrase or expression that usually presents a figurative, non-literal meaning attached to the phrase. Idioms are not just used in conversations – they're also very common in literature, movies, and music. We utilize them to convey a message in a concise and effective manner, and often have deep cultural or historical significance. They help to create a vivid and memorable image in the minds of the audience.
Idioms are difficult because they do not mean what they literally state. Communication challenges emerge when you translate an idiom in your language; it will not make sense or if it does make sense you may miss the intended meaning.
How to Study Idioms
- Read them. Read books, newspapers, magazine articles, online articles for exposure in written material.
- Watch them. Watch TV shows and movies in English! There are so many streaming services available for you to choose from. Listen attentively and try to understand the context in which they are used.
- Use them. Talk to native speakers and try to incorporate common idioms into your conversations. Try using them during conversations with friends, family, coworkers, or through text.
- Practice. Practice. Practice. Remember that you can't learn all of them! So start with a few that you understand and build your library of idioms from there!
