Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
there's-no-such-thing-as-a-free-lunch
idiom
/ðɛrz noʊ sʌtʃ θɪŋ æz ə fri lʌntʃ/
Definition
The phrase ‘there’s no such thing as a free lunch’ means that it is impossible to get something for nothing; any benefit or gain typically comes at a cost or sacrifice.
Examples
- The promotion seemed great, but remember, there’s no such thing as a free lunch; the company is expecting more hard work from you in return.
- Be wary of offers that sound too good to be true; often, there’s no such thing as a free lunch.
Meaning
This idiom suggests that every choice comes with its consequences, and that what may seem free will usually entail hidden costs or obligations.
Synonyms
- Nothing comes for free
- You can’t get something for nothing
- Everything has a price
