The Best of Both Worlds (Origin)

by Craig Shrives

What Is the Origin of the Saying "The Best of Both Worlds"?

The term "the best of both worlds" means a situation that allows you to benefit from two opportunities at the same time.

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The Best of Both Worlds (Origin)

Examples of Use:

  • You can't have the best of both worlds. You have to choose.
  • The village is peaceful, but the city is only twenty minutes away. We have the best of both worlds.
  • This car has the the best of both worlds. It's compact and luxurious.
In this saying, which has been in use since around 1850, the word "worlds" probably refers to life on Earth and life after death. The original notion of "the best of both worlds" was that being good in life provided access to Heaven.

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See Also

What are idioms? What is figurative language? A list of common grammar errors A list of easily confused words A list of sayings and proverbs