best of both worlds
A combination of two seemingly contradictory benefits.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“Working from home gives me the best of both worlds.”
“Living in the city but near the park offers the best of both worlds for my family.”
“By choosing a hybrid career, she enjoys the best of both worlds: the stability of a salary and the freedom of being her own boss.”
first recorded 18th c. disputed origin
Echoes the philosophical idea of 'the best of all possible worlds' (Leibniz, satirised in Voltaire's Candide, 1759); here meaning the joys of two different worlds at once.
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all over the world
throughout the world, everywhere, worldwide, globally.
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as best one can
In the best possible way, given one's circumstances and abilities.
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best bet
The best proposal or plan.
- 04
best laid plans
A proverbial expression used to signify the futility of making detailed plans when the ability to fully or even partially execute them is uncertain.
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best of the bunch
The best or most preferred person or item within a group.
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best pleased
displeased, upset, disgruntled
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best regards
Used as a polite closing of a letter
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best thing since sliced bread
Alternative form of greatest thing since sliced bread.
Last updated August 10, 2026