You can't have your cake and eat it too

Meaning

You cannot keep something while also using it.

Usage

Used when someone wants contradictory benefits.

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.

English proverb recorded in the 16th century.

Popularized in folk sayings and later in musicals and films.