English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Forbidden fruit is always the sweetest
Meaning
The idiom "forbidden fruit is always the sweetest" means that something which is considered to be illegal or prohibited by authority is often more appealing and desirable than something that is freely available. It suggests that people tend to value things more when they are restricted or off-limits.
Usage
- My wife always forbids me from eating dessert, but I can't resist the temptation of her homemade chocolate cake.
- The students were caught stealing books from the library, and now they all want to get their hands on them even more.
- When we went hiking in the national park, we saw a sign that warned us not to venture too far off the trail. But of course, we couldn't resist exploring the forbidden territory.
- My parents never allowed me to watch TV before bedtime, but when I was 12 years old, they finally gave in and let me stay up late just once a week. Now I can't wait to see what shows are on!
- The restaurant's secret menu had items that were only available to those who knew the password. It made me feel like I was part of an exclusive club, and I couldn't resist trying out their famous "forbidden fruit" cocktail.
Roots and History
The idiom is believed to have originated from the biblical story of Adam and Eve. When God created Adam and Eve, he forbade them from eating from the tree of knowledge. However, tempted by a serpent, Eve ate the apple and gave it to Adam, who also took a bite. They were punished for their disobedience and were kicked out of the garden of Eden. The idiom suggests that just like the apple in the story was forbidden, something that is restricted or off-limits can be even more tempting and appealing.
Synonyms in English
- Temptation
- Lust
- Craving
- Desire
- Longing
Synonyms in other languages
- In French, the idiom "le fruit interdit est le plus doux" has a similar meaning and is used in a similar context as "forbidden fruit is always the sweetest".
- In Spanish, the idiom "el fruto prohibido es el más dulce" means the same thing and is used in a similar context.
- In Italian, the idiom "il frutto proibito è il più dolce" means the same thing and is used in a similar context.
- In German, the idiom "das verbotene Objekt ist das am liebste" has a similar meaning and is used in a similar context.
- In Dutch, the idiom "het verboden object is het lievelijkest" means the same thing and is used in a similar context.