en English es español fr française it italiano de deutsche ja 日本語 pl polski cs česky sv svenska tr Türkçe nl Nederlands

Explaining "Revenge is a dish best served cold"

Reviewed and edited by Lloyd Cooper 09/10/2024, 07:18
English.me team member

What does it mean?

Revenge is a dish best served cold

The phrase means that revenge is often more satisfying if it is not rushed and is executed after some time has passed, usually with careful planning and without emotion.

Tone

The tone of the phrase is often sinister and calculating, implying patience and strategic thinking in the pursuit of vengeance.

Origin

The exact origin of the phrase is somewhat unclear, but it is widely believed to have originated in France. The French phrase "La vengeance est un plat qui se mange froid" translates directly to the English version. One of the earliest appearances in French literature can be found in the novel "Les Liaisons Dangereuses" by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos, published in 1782, although the exact wording differs. It gained popular usage in the English-speaking world through literature and media.

Examples of usage

  • After years of waiting, he finally exacted his revenge, proving that revenge is a dish best served cold.
  • She knew that rushing into revenge wouldn't be wise. After all, revenge is a dish best served cold.

Recommended posts in Phrases

Hold your horses

Hold your horses

The phrase "Hold your horses" means to slow down or ... Learn more →

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder

The phrase means that the perception of beauty is subjective ... Learn more →

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step

The phrase means that great achievements or long endeavors start ... Learn more →

A little learning is a dangerous thing

A little learning is a dangerous thing

The phrase "A little learning is a dangerous thing" suggests ... Learn more →