What does “Gilded cage” mean?
"A gilded cage" means a situation where someone is trapped or confined in a luxurious or comfortable environment, but is still restricted or limited in some way.
What context can I use the in?
Example
She felt like she was living in a gilded cage with all the material comforts but no freedom.
Example
The CEO may have a luxurious office, but it's still a gilded cage because of the demanding workload.
Example
He realized that his marriage had become a gilded cage, with all the trappings of success but no emotional connection
Is “Gilded cage” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Gilded cage” 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 “Gilded cage” effectively in context?
You can use "Gilded Cage" to describe a situation where someone appears to have all the material comforts and luxuries, but lacks freedom or fulfillment. Here are three distinct situations where you can effectively use this phrase:
- 1Living Conditions
After inheriting her family's wealth, she moved into a mansion, but soon realized that it was just a gilded cage as she felt isolated and lonely.
- 2Work Environment
The CEO may have a corner office with a view, but it's still a gilded cage because of the demanding workload and lack of work-life balance.
- 3Relationships
He thought his marriage was perfect, but over time, he realized that it had become a gilded cage, with all the trappings of success but no emotional connection.
Similar phrases to “Gilded cage”:
Golden handcuffs
A situation where someone is financially trapped in a job they dislike because of the high salary or benefits
Example
He couldn't leave his job because of the golden handcuffs - the high salary and perks kept him tied to the company.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Gilded cage” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Gilded Cage" can be traced back to the 19th century. It was inspired by the concept of a birdcage covered in gold leaf, which represents luxury and opulence. The phrase is often used metaphorically to describe a situation where someone is trapped or confined in a luxurious or comfortable environment, but is still restricted or limited in some way.
Is “Gilded cage” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Gilded Cage" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where someone appears to have everything they could want, but still feels trapped or unfulfilled.
What tone does “Gilded cage” have?
"Gilded Cage" conveys a tone of irony and dissatisfaction. It highlights the contrast between outward appearances of luxury and comfort and the underlying feeling of being trapped or restricted.
Can “Gilded cage” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Gilded Cage" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of being trapped or confined in a luxurious or comfortable environment. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She felt like she was living in a "gilded cage" with all the material comforts but no freedom.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Living in a "gilded cage" can be suffocating.' to imply the feeling of being trapped.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- luxury prison
- trapped in comfort
- golden cage
- opulent confinement
- comfortable confinement
