“A blessing in disguise”: meaning, origin and examples
What it means
A blessing in disguise is an idiom referring to something that seems negative or unfortunate at first but ultimately results in something positive or beneficial.
Tone Optimistic and reassuring
Where it comes from
The phrase originated in the 18th century, with one of the earliest recorded uses in James Hervey’s 1746 work “Reflections on a Flower-Garden.”
Examples
- Losing her job was a blessing in disguise because it led her to pursue her true passion.
- The missed flight was a blessing in disguise; the next plane was less crowded and more comfortable.
- His injury turned out to be a blessing in disguise, as it gave him time to reconnect with his family.
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