have one's cake and eat it

/hav wˈɒnz kˈeɪk and ɪt ɪt tˈuː/

/hæv wˈʌnz kˈeɪk ænd ɪt ɪt tˈuː/

[phrase]

to have one's cake and eat it

[PHRASE]

to desire to have two things that are impossible to have without sacrificing the other

What is the origin of the idiom "make a go of something" and when to use it?

The idiom "have your cake and eat it" dates back to at least the 16th century, and its exact origin is unclear. The word "cake" in this context refers to a delicious treat or dessert, and the idiom essentially means wanting to both possess and consume the cake simultaneously, which is impossible. The idea behind the phrase is that one cannot enjoy the benefits of something fully while preserving it in its original state. It

Examples

1. He can't have his cake and eat it too.

2. You can't have your cake and eat it too.

3. You can't have your cake and eat it as they say.

4. At first glance, that seems like it would let you have your cake and eat it too, giving you the sweetness of sugar without so many calories.