Apples and oranges

Meaning

Two things that are fundamentally different and not directly comparable.

Usage

Warns against unfair comparisons.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Fruit metaphor referencing obvious differences.

Comparing unlike things has been proverbial since the 17th century, with earlier forms such as 'apples and oysters'.