English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
If wishes were horses, beggars would ride
Meaning
The idiom "if wishes were horses, beggars would ride" means that if something was possible or easy to do, then everyone would be able to do it. It's a commonly used expression to express frustration or disappointment that something isn't as easy or accessible as it should be.
Usage
- If only I could afford the latest iPhone, my life would be so much easier!
- It's frustrating that not everyone has access to healthcare, especially during a global pandemic.
- I wish I could travel more, but with the current state of the world, it's impossible.
- Why can't we all just get along and work together for the greater good?
- It's amazing how some people seem to have all the luck in the world.
Roots and History
The phrase "if wishes were horses" dates back to at least the 17th century, with the earliest known use appearing in a collection of proverbs by Thomas Nashe in 1590. The idea behind the expression is that if wishes were horses, then anyone could easily fulfill their desires. Over time, the phrase evolved to include the idea of beggars riding horses, which became an expression for wishful thinking or fantasizing about something that's not possible.
Synonyms in English
- If only I had a magic wand, all my problems would be solved!
- It's frustrating how hard it is to get ahead in life.
- Why can't we just make everything easier and more accessible?
- It's amazing how some people seem to have all the luck in the world.
- I wish I could be a superhero and save the day every time!
Synonyms in other languages
- En Spanish: "Si hubieras caballos de fuego, todos los pobres hubieran cabalos"
- In French: "S'il avait des chevaux de feu, tous les pauvres auraient des chevaux"
- In German: "Ich wünschte, ich hätte Pferde mit Feuer im Mund, so wären alle Arme auch reich!"
- In Italian: "Se avessi cavalli di fuoco, tutti i poveri avrebbero cavalli"
- In Russian: "Если бы у всех были лошади с огненным зубом, то и бедные получались богатыми".