Etymology Journal · Y

You can't have your cake and eat it too

Meaning

You cannot keep your possession and use it up at the same time. Once you eat the cake, it is gone, so you cannot have it on your plate for later.

Instructional, firm

I want to be popular but also stay home every night; I guess you can't have your cake and eat it too.
He complains about the commute but won't move to the city, well, you can't have your cake and eat it too.
You can't have your cake and eat it too regarding the car lease terms.

This is an old English proverb that dates back to the 1500s. It is a classic example of basic economic logic expressed through snacks.

Nationwide

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