Eat your cake and have it too Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To want two things that cannot both happen at the same time, usually having all the benefits without any sacrifice.
Usage & Nuances
This is often used to point out when someone is being unrealistic or selfish in wanting all advantages with none of the consequences. It’s informal, and similar in meaning to 'you can’t have it both ways.'
Example Sentences
You can't eat your cake and have it too.
basic
If you want to travel, you can't eat your cake and have it too—you may need to spend money.
basic
She wants to work less and still get paid the same. You can’t eat your cake and have it too.
basic
Look, you can't eat your cake and have it too. Sometimes you have to choose what's more important.
natural
People always want shortcuts, but you can't just eat your cake and have it too in life.
natural
He was upset he missed the party, but you can't eat your cake and have it too when you choose to work instead.
natural