The grass is(n't) always greener on the other side
Meaning(s)
1. reflecting the idea that someone else's life/possessions is/are better than yours
Popularity
High
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
they say the grass is always greener on the other side
Analysis
The expression 'the grass is always greener on the other side' refers to the assumption that the position other people are in or the things that they have are better than yours. This idiom is used to question envying what other people have. The implication is that appearances can be deceptive, and while other peoples positions and possessions may seem attractive from your perspective - you may not be getting the full picture or be exposed to the negatives other people are encountering or experiencing. You can imagine a cow trapped in a field who believes the grass is better in the next field when, in fact, it is no better or perhaps even worse.
Social Examples (Basic)
- I thought her job was better because she made more money, but I have more flexibility and more regular hours. So the grass isn't always greener on the other side.
- I really envied the Arts' Students when I was in University. They were partying all the time when I was studying. But now many of them are still unemployed, so I guess it's true what they say: the grass is always greener on the other side.
Professional Examples (Basic)
- When it comes to perks and benefits, the grass isn't always greener on the other side. Many companies boast of nap chairs and video games but fail to provide health insurance for their employees.
- I always wanted to be in a management role, but now that I am finally managing a team, I am overworked and stressed all the time. I suppose you always think the grass is greener on the other side.