There ain't no such thing as a free lunch Meaning in English
expression
释义
This saying means you can't get something for nothing; everything has a cost, even if it's not obvious.
用法与细微差别
Very informal, uses double negative and spoken grammar. Commonly used to warn that 'free' offers often have hidden costs or obligations. Abbreviated as TANSTAAFL in some academic/economic contexts. Not used in formal writing.
例句
There ain't no such thing as a free lunch. If someone offers you something, they want something back.
basic
My dad always says, 'There ain't no such thing as a free lunch,' when I want something for nothing.
basic
He learned the hard way that there ain't no such thing as a free lunch after joining that program.
basic
If it sounds too good to be true, remember, there ain't no such thing as a free lunch.
natural
They offered free tickets, but there ain't no such thing as a free lunch—I had to fill out a long survey first.
natural
You can take those 'free trials,' but just know, there ain't no such thing as a free lunch in the end.
natural