Feast today, famine tomorrow: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Feast today, famine tomorrow” mean?

"Feast today, famine tomorrow" means that you have a lot of something now, but you won't have any later.

What context can I use the in?

Example

He's spending all his money on luxury items, but it's feast today, famine tomorrow.

Example

They're eating out every night, but it's feast today, famine tomorrow when the bills come due.

Example

She's enjoying her success now, but it's feast today, famine tomorrow if she doesn't plan for the future

Is “Feast today, famine tomorrow” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Feast today, famine tomorrow” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Feast today, famine tomorrow” effectively in context?

You can use "Feast today, famine tomorrow" to caution someone about the consequences of excessive indulgence or lack of planning. It emphasizes the idea that enjoying abundance in the present without considering the future can lead to scarcity and hardship later on. For example, if a friend is spending all their money on unnecessary purchases, you might say, 'Be careful with your spending. It's "feast today, famine tomorrow".'

• 1. Personal Finance

  He's spending all his money on luxury items, but it's feast today, famine tomorrow if he doesn't start saving.

• 2. Diet and Health

  They're eating out every night, but it's feast today, famine tomorrow when they realize the impact on their health and finances.

• 3. Career Planning

  She's enjoying her success now, but it's feast today, famine tomorrow if she doesn't invest in her professional development.

Similar phrases to “Feast today, famine tomorrow”:

Live for today, not tomorrow

To prioritize immediate enjoyment over future consequences

Example

He's always spending his money on fun activities, living for today, not tomorrow.

Save for a rainy day

To set aside money or resources for future needs or emergencies

Example

She's diligent about saving money, always thinking about a rainy day.

Count your chickens before they hatch

To assume success or abundance before it actually happens

Example

He's already planning how to spend his bonus, counting his chickens before they hatch.

Penny wise, pound foolish

To be careful with small expenses but careless with larger ones

Example

She saves money by buying cheap products, but ends up spending more on repairs. Penny wise, pound foolish.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Feast today, famine tomorrow” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Feast today, famine tomorrow" is unknown.

Is “Feast today, famine tomorrow” common in everyday conversation?

The phrase "Feast today, famine tomorrow" is not as common as some other proverbs, but it is still recognizable and used in everyday conversation. It serves as a reminder to consider the long-term consequences of our actions and choices.

What tone does “Feast today, famine tomorrow” have?

"Feast today, famine tomorrow" conveys a tone of caution and prudence. It warns against short-sightedness and encourages thoughtful planning and moderation.

Can “Feast today, famine tomorrow” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "Feast today, famine tomorrow" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is suitable for various contexts, such as personal conversations, financial advice, or even professional discussions about long-term strategies.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'If you keep spending recklessly, it will be "feast today, famine tomorrow".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Remember, "feast today, famine tomorrow"!' to imply the importance of considering the future.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• enjoy now, suffer later
• indulge today, regret tomorrow
• splurge today, starve tomorrow
• waste today, want tomorrow

Antonyms

• save for the future
• plan for tomorrow
• moderation leads to abundance
• invest in the future