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to wake up and smell the coffee
01
to recognize the reality of a situation, no matter how unpleasant it may be
![to [wake] up and [smell] the coffee definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/44808/original/?type=jpeg "to [wake] up and [smell] the coffee definition and meaning")
What is the origin of the idiom "wake up and smell the coffee" and when to use it?
The idiom "wake up and smell the coffee" likely originated as a way to encourage someone to become more aware, alert, or realistic about a situation. Coffee is known for its strong and distinct aroma, and the act of smelling it can jolt someone awake or make them more alert, both physically and mentally. By extension, the phrase urges someone to become more aware of their surroundings, the truth of a situation, or the need to take action. It is often used to refer to the person has been inattentive, complacent, or overly optimistic for an extended period of time.
Example
Instead of dreaming about a promotion, he should wake up and smell the coffee by improving his job performance.
I tried to warn him that his business model was outdated, but he refused to wake up and smell the coffee until it was too late.
She needs to wake up and smell the coffee about her unhealthy lifestyle before it's too late.
It's time to wake up and smell the coffee.
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