PhrasesHub

fairy tale

    Definitions

      • something that is not true or realistic
        Describing a story or situation that is fanciful or imaginative, often to highlight its lack of truth or practicality

      • something that seems perfect or ideal but is not
        Referring to a situation that appears to be flawless or idealistic on the surface but is actually unrealistic or impractical in reality

    Examples of fairy tale

    • His success in the company seemed like a fairy tale ending.

      This idiom is used to describe a sudden and unexpectedly happy ending. It suggests that the person's success in the company is like a fairy tale where the good guys win in the end.

    • She fell in love with him at first sight in a storybook kind of way.

      This idiom is used to describe a romantic scene where the person falls in love instantly, as if it's taken from a fairy tale or a love story.

    • He's been struggling in his career, but he's hoping for a fairy tale turnaround.

      This idiom is used to describe a person's hope for a sudden and dramatic change. It suggests that the person is wishing for a fairy tale-like transformation, where things are improved all at once.

    • The presentation was a disaster, it was like something out of a fairy tale horror movie.

      This idiom is used to describe an unpleasant or negative outcome. It suggests that the presentation was so bad that it was similar to a horror movie from a fairy tale, where everything goes horribly wrong.

    • She's been offered a job in a foreign country, it's like she's living in a fairy tale.

      This idiom is used to describe a fulfilling and exciting experience. It suggests that the person's new job abroad is so wonderful that it feels like she's living in a fairy tale.

    • He's been working so hard, it seems like his wishes are finally coming true in a fairy tale kind of way.

      This idiom is used to describe a reward for hard work. It suggests that the person's efforts are finally paying off, and it's as good as a fairy tale ending.

    • The company's profit projections for the next year are as fantastical as a fairy tale.

      The use of the idiom "as fantastical as a fairy tale" suggests that the profit projections are unrealistically high and unlikely to come true, just as the magical and impossible events often depicted in fairy tales are not realistic.

    • In this market, investors are hoping for a happily ever after ending, just like a fairy tale.

      The use of the idiom "happily ever after" implies that investors are hoping for a positive outcome, just as the traditional ending of fairy tales is typically a happy one.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "fairy tale" is commonly used to describe something that is not true or realistic, often in the context of stories or situations that are overly idealistic or perfect. It serves as a cautionary phrase to remind people that not everything they hear or see is genuine or achievable. By likening something to a fairy tale, it implies a sense of whimsy and fantasy that is disconnected from the harsh realities of life. It can also be a way to warn against getting caught up in overly optimistic or unrealistic expectations.

    In essence, when someone refers to something as a "fairy tale," they are usually casting doubt on its authenticity or practicality, suggesting that it is more akin to a fictional story than a plausible reality. It can be a gentle way to remind others to stay grounded and not get carried away by illusions of perfection or impossibility.

    Origin of "fairy tale"

    The origin of the idiom "fairy tale" can be traced back to traditional folklore and storytelling. Fairy tales are a genre of literature that often includes magical elements, fantastical creatures, and improbable events. These stories were originally passed down orally through generations, with many variations and adaptations emerging over time. The term "fairy tale" itself dates back to the 17th century, when it was used to describe stories featuring fairies, witches, and other supernatural beings.

    Over the years, the term "fairy tale" has evolved to encompass a broader range of narratives that are whimsical, romanticized, or unrealistic in nature. It has become a popular phrase in everyday language to describe situations or stories that are perceived as too good to be true or lacking in authenticity. The enduring appeal of fairy tales lies in their ability to captivate audiences with their enchanting qualities while also serving as cautionary tales about the dangers of naivety and wishful thinking.