"there is no such thing as (a) free lunch"Tanımı ve Anlamı

What is the origin of the proverb "there is no such thing as free lunch" and when to use it?

The origin of the proverb "there is no such thing as a free lunch" can be traced back to the United States in the 19th century, where bars would offer free lunches to customers who purchased drinks. However, these "free" lunches were often factored into the cost of the drinks, making the meal not truly free. The saying suggests that nothing of value is ever given without some cost or trade-off, even if it is not immediately apparent. It emphasizes the idea that all benefits come with a price, whether it is financial, time, or effort. The proverb serves as a reminder to be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true.