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to have one's cake and eat it (too)
to have one's cake and eat it (too)
01
to desire to have two things that are impossible to have without sacrificing the other
![to [have] {one's} cake and eat it (too|) definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/44672/original/?type=jpeg "to [have] {one's} cake and eat it (too|) definition and meaning")
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "have one's cake and eat it" and when to use it?
The phrase "have one's cake and eat it" is an idiom that is used to express the idea of wanting to have things both ways, which is often impossible. The origin of this phrase can be traced back to the 16th century, and its earlier form was "eat your cake and have it too."
Examples
She wants to quit her job and travel the world, but she also wants financial security. She ca n't have her cake and eat it too.
You ca n't expect to stay out late every night and still perform well at your job. You have to choose – you ca n't have your cake and eat it.
