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used to suggest that prolonged absence can create unrealistic expectations that lead to disappointment when reunited with what was missed
What is the origin of the proverb "absence is the mother of disillusion" and when to use it?
The origin of the proverb "absence is the mother of disillusion" is uncertain, but it conveys a concept found in different cultural expressions. The phrase suggests that being apart from something or someone for a long period can lead to unrealistic expectations, and when reunited, these expectations may result in disappointment. It emphasizes how distance or time can make one idealize what is missed, only to realize upon return that it may not be as good as imagined. The proverb is often used to highlight how absence can cause a shift in perception, often leading to an unpleasant reality.
