PhrasesHub

the Midas touch

    Definitions

      • ability to turn everything to gold or to be successful in everything one does
        Describing someone who has the ability to make everything they touch successful or profitable

      • detrimental effect
        Referring to someone who has a negative impact on everything they are involved in, often leading to unintended consequences

    Examples of the Midas touch

    • Sarah's new marketing strategy has been quite successful, ever since she took over the company. Her brilliant ideas and decisions have brought about a significant increase in sales and profit. Her Midas touch seems to have rubbed off on the company, making it shine like gold.

      This means that Sarah's ideas and decisions seem to bring about success as though she had the mythological king Midas' power to turn everything she touches into gold.

    • Michael Jordan is considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time. His ability to score points with almost every shot he takes, combined with his leadership skills, has made him a valuable asset to his team. His Midas touch has earned him numerous awards and accolades, cementing his position as a legend in the sport.

      This means that Michael Jordan has a remarkable talent and skill in basketball, which results in success, just as King Midas' touch could turn anything into gold.

    • The investors' keen insight and sound decision-making have led to the company's financial success. Their Midas touch has helped the company navigate through financial crisis, resulting in significant growth and prosperity.

      This means that the investors' wisdom, foresight, and decision-making abilities have resulted in financial success, much like King Midas' touch could turn everything into gold.

    • Emma Watson's acting prowess has led to her becoming a popular and highly successful actress in Hollywood. Her Midas touch seems to have extended to her personal and professional life, with her philanthropic work and advocacy for various social causes earning her accolades and admiration.

      This means that Emma Watson's talent, skills, and choices have led to success in her personal and professional life, much like King Midas' touch could turn everything into gold.

    • John's latest marketing campaign has had the Midas touch.

      In Greek mythology, King Midas could turn everything he touched into gold. Here, John's marketing campaign has been so successful that everything it touches turns profitable.

    • J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter books have had the Midas touch on the big screen.

      The Harry Potter film series has been incredibly successful, turning the beloved books into blockbuster box-office hits. Just as King Midas could turn anything into gold, J.K. Rowling's books have been transformed into cinematic gold.

    • Sarah's new startup idea has the Midas touch.

      Sarah's innovative business idea has the potential to turn everything it touches into gold. Just as King Midas could turn everything he touched into gold, Sarah's startup idea seems to have a magical touch that turns everyone and everything involved into success.

    • The city's mayor has the Midas touch when it comes to economic development.

      The mayor has a gift for bringing prosperity and economic growth to the city. Just as King Midas could turn everything he touched into gold, the mayor's vision and leadership seems to have a magical touch that turns the city's fortunes around.


    Conclusion

    "The Midas touch" is a versatile idiom that can be used both positively and negatively. On one hand, it signifies the ability to succeed in various endeavors effortlessly, while on the other, it can represent a person whose actions often lead to negative outcomes. Both meanings highlight the power and influence that an individual can have in different situations, whether for better or for worse.

    In everyday conversations, this idiom is commonly used to describe individuals who seem to have a magical ability to excel in their endeavors or to caution against relying too heavily on someone whose actions may lead to unforeseen problems. It serves as a cautionary tale of the potential consequences of unchecked power or talent, reminding us that success can come with its own set of challenges.

    Origin of "the Midas touch"

    The origin of the idiom "the Midas touch" can be traced back to Greek mythology. King Midas was a legendary figure who was granted a wish by the god Dionysus, allowing him to turn everything he touched into gold. Initially thrilled by his newfound ability, Midas soon realized the curse it brought as he turned his food and loved ones into gold, highlighting the unintended consequences of his wish.

    This myth has been passed down through generations and has become a popular symbol of wealth, success, and the dangers of unchecked power. The idiom "the Midas touch" has since been used to refer to individuals who possess exceptional talent or luck in achieving success, as well as those whose actions lead to negative outcomes despite their best intentions. The story of King Midas continues to serve as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the complexities and challenges that come with the pursuit of wealth and power.