What does “Forbidden fruit is sweet.” mean?
"Forbidden fruit is sweet" means that people often desire what they are not allowed to have, and the forbidden or taboo can be especially alluring.
What context can I use the in?
Example
She couldn't resist the temptation and took a bite of the forbidden fruit. Forbidden fruit is sweet.
Example
They say curiosity killed the cat, but sometimes the allure of the forbidden is just too strong. Forbidden fruit is sweet.
Example
He knew he shouldn't pursue her, but the forbidden always seemed more enticing. *Forbidden fruit is sweet.
Is “Forbidden fruit is sweet.” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Forbidden fruit is sweet.” 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 is sweet.” effectively in context?
You can use the phrase "Forbidden fruit is sweet" to convey the idea that people often desire what they are not allowed to have, and the forbidden or taboo can be especially alluring. It emphasizes the allure and temptation of forbidden things. For example, if a friend is considering breaking a rule or engaging in a forbidden activity, you might say, 'Remember, "forbidden fruit is sweet", but it comes with consequences.'
- 1Relationships
Despite knowing it was wrong, she couldn't resist the attraction and started dating her best friend's ex-boyfriend. Forbidden fruit is sweet.
- 2Dieting
He had been following a strict diet, but the sight of a decadent chocolate cake was too tempting to resist. Forbidden fruit is sweet.
- 3Career Choices
She was offered a high-paying job in a field she wasn't passionate about, but the allure of the money was hard to ignore. Forbidden fruit is sweet.
Similar phrases to “Forbidden fruit is sweet.”:
Curiosity killed the cat
Being too curious or nosy can lead to trouble or harm.
Example
He couldn't resist opening the mysterious package, but curiosity killed the cat when it exploded.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Forbidden fruit is sweet.” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Forbidden fruit is sweet" 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 forbidden fruit and give in to their desires, leading to their expulsion from paradise.
Is “Forbidden fruit is sweet.” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "Forbidden fruit is sweet" is not as commonly used in everyday conversation compared to other idioms or proverbs. However, it is still known and understood by many English speakers. It is often used in literary or poetic contexts, as well as in discussions about temptation, desire, and the consequences of pursuing forbidden things.
What tone does “Forbidden fruit is sweet.” have?
"Forbidden fruit is sweet" conveys a tone of caution and temptation. It suggests that while forbidden things may be enticing, they often come with negative consequences. The tone can vary depending on the context and how it is used.
Can “Forbidden fruit is sweet.” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "Forbidden fruit is sweet" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a well-known proverb that conveys a universal concept. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, discussions, or written essays.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
The phrase "Forbidden fruit is sweet" is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She couldn't resist the temptation and took a bite of the forbidden fruit. "Forbidden fruit is sweet".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Remember, "forbidden fruit is sweet"' to imply the allure of forbidden things.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- temptation is stronger for the forbidden
- desire grows for the prohibited
- forbidden things are more enticing
- the allure of the taboo is powerful
- forbidden pleasures are sweeter
Antonyms
- allowed fruit is bland
- permitted things are less appealing
- legal activities are less tempting
- following the rules is satisfying
- avoiding forbidden things is wise
