East, west, home's best

Definitions

expressing the idea that home is the most comfortable and favorable place to be
Generally used as a comforting phrase when feeling homesick or when returning home after being away for a long time
emphasizing the value and importance of the familiar and known
Can be used to explain why someone prefers to stay in their hometown or country rather than traveling or moving to a new place

Examples of East, west, home's best

After months of traveling to different parts of the world, Jane realized that there's no place like home. She missed her cozy bed, her favorite coffee shop, and the familiar sights and sounds of her neighborhood. The phrase "east, west, home's best" perfectly captured how she felt about returning to where she belonged.

This is an example of the idiom being used as a statement, summarizing Jane's feelings about the value of home. It can be interpreted to mean that despite the appeal of exotic destinations, one's own place of residence is ultimately the most comforting and satisfying.
Jessica had just moved to Hong Kong for a job opportunity, and although she was enjoying the city's energy and excitement, she found herself missing the simple pleasures of life. She craved the green hills of her hometown, and the sound of birds chirping in the morning. She longed for the tranquility of "east, west, home's best."

This is an example of the idiom being used as a metaphor for the speaker's emotional state. It conveys a sense of yearning for the simplicity and solace of home, even while embracing a new and challenging experience abroad.
The urban planner suggested building more affordable housing in the eastern part of the city, where property values were lower and transportation links were better. He argued that this would benefit the community by allowing more people to live closer to their jobs and schools, and by helping to revitalize neglected neighborhoods in the east. He believed that "east, west, home's best" was not an excuse to overlook the potential advantages of living outside the city center.

This is an example of the idiom being used as a counterargument, challenging the notion that one's home must always be preferred over other options. It recognizes the benefits of considering all parts of the city as having their own unique value, rather than automatically favoring the traditional heart of the community.
Sarah's children had grown up and moved away, leaving her with an empty house and an aching heart. She spent her days wandering the streets, trying to fill the void that had been left behind. She visited the homes of old friends, hoping to recapture the sense of belonging that she had lost. In the end, she realized that "east, west, home's best" was not about a specific place, but about the people and memories that make a house a home.

This is an example of the idiom being used as a reflection on the importance of relationships and personal connections, rather than solely the physical location of one's residence. It suggests that it is the people and moments shared in a place that create its significance, rather than the location itself.
After years of traveling and exploring new places, Sarah finally realized that "East or west, home's best." She missed her cozy apartment, her loving family, and the familiar streets of her hometown.

This example is using the idiom "East, west, home's best" to convey the idea that after experiencing many different places, Sarah has come to the realization that she values and prefers the comfort and familiarity of her own home above any other location.
Sam didn't want to choose between studying abroad in Asia or Europe. He wondered, "East or west, which will be the best for my educational and personal growth?"

In this example, the idiom is being used to help Sam consider the potential benefits of each location and weigh his options. It highlights the idea that there are pros and cons to consider when making a decision, even when presented with two appealing alternatives.
After comparing the salaries and job opportunities in New York and Los Angeles, Emily decided that "East or west, I'll take the job that pays me the most."

This example is using the idiom to illustrate Emily's prioritization of financial stability and gainful employment, as she considers the location of the job. It highlights the idea that people often have practical concerns that weigh heavily in their decision-making processes.
Jack had to choose between staying close to his aging parents or moving across the country for a job opportunity. He thought, "East or west, I'll do whatever's best for my family."

This example is using the idiom to demonstrate Jack's familial values and his commitment to putting his loved ones' needs before his own desires. Here, the idiom is being used to underscore the importance of family bonds and the sacrifices people might make to honor them.

Conclusion

The idiom "East, west, home's best" highlights the idea that home is a special and cherished place. It emphasizes the comfort and familiarity of one's own home and the value of the known compared to the unknown.

In its first meaning, the idiom is often used as a comforting phrase for someone who is feeling homesick or for someone who has been away from home for a long time. It serves as a reminder that no matter where one travels or how long they are away, home will always be the most comforting and welcoming place to return to.

In its second meaning, the idiom is used to explain why someone may choose to stay in their hometown or country rather than venturing out into new and unfamiliar territories. It highlights the idea that the known and familiar is often more valuable and desirable than the unknown.

Origin of "East, west, home's best"

The origin of the idiom "East, west, home's best" can be traced back to ancient Roman times. The original phrase was "East or West, home is best" and it was first recorded in the 4th century by the Roman playwright Plautus. This phrase was later translated into English and became the commonly used idiom we know today.

The phrase was often used in Roman literature to express the idea that no matter where one travels, home will always be the most comfortable and desirable place to be. This sentiment was also reflected in the ancient Greek proverb, "There is nothing like staying at home for real comfort."

Over time, the idiom evolved and was shortened to "East, west, home's best" but its meaning remained the same. It has become a popular phrase in many languages and cultures, showcasing the universal longing for the comfort and familiarity of home.