What does “Forbidden fruit” mean?
"Forbidden fruit" means something that is desired but is not allowed or accessible.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He couldn't resist the temptation of the forbidden fruit.
Example
She knew she was playing with forbidden fruit when she started dating her best friend's ex.
Example
The forbidden fruit of success was always just out of reach for him
Is “Forbidden fruit” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Forbidden fruit” 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 “Forbidden fruit” effectively in context?
You can use "Forbidden Fruit" to describe something that is desired but is not allowed or accessible. It often implies a sense of temptation and the consequences that may arise from pursuing something that is forbidden. For example, if someone is attracted to a person who is already in a committed relationship, you might say, 'He couldn't resist the temptation of the forbidden fruit.'
- 1Love and Relationships
She knew she was playing with forbidden fruit when she started dating her best friend's ex.
- 2Ambition and Success
The forbidden fruit of success was always just out of reach for him.
- 3Temptation and Desire
He couldn't resist the allure of the forbidden fruit.
Similar phrases to “Forbidden fruit”:
Sour grapes
To disparage something that one desires but cannot have
Example
After failing to win the competition, he dismissed it as sour grapes.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Forbidden fruit” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Forbidden Fruit" can be traced back to the biblical story of Adam and Eve. In the story, God forbids Adam and Eve from eating the fruit from the Tree of Knowledge in the Garden of Eden. However, they are tempted by the serpent and end up eating the forbidden fruit, leading to their expulsion from paradise. The phrase has since come to represent something that is desired but is not allowed or accessible.
Is “Forbidden fruit” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Forbidden Fruit" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. It is often used to describe situations where someone desires something that is off-limits or prohibited.
What tone does “Forbidden fruit” have?
"Forbidden Fruit" conveys a tone of temptation and desire. It suggests that the desired object or situation is alluring and enticing, but also carries a sense of risk or consequence.
Can “Forbidden fruit” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Forbidden Fruit" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a well-known expression that can be used in various contexts, such as discussing relationships, ambition, or temptation. It is suitable for everyday conversations as well as more formal situations.
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, 'He couldn't resist the temptation of the forbidden fruit.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Beware of the forbidden fruit!' to imply caution about pursuing something that is off-limits.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- taboo desire
- prohibited pleasure
- off-limits temptation
- unattainable goal
- desired but inaccessible
Antonyms
- permitted pleasure
- accessible desire
- allowed goal
- available opportunity
