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Region: General | Usage example: We deployed the update knowing you can't please everyone.

You can't please everyone

Meaning

It is impossible to satisfy every opinion.

Usage

Used to justify tough decisions.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Derived from older proverbs warning against universal approval.

This warning appears as early as the 16th century.

Related Idioms

You can't judge a book by its cover

Appearances can be deceiving.

Can't cut the mustard

Fail to meet expectations.

You can't have your cake and eat it too

You cannot keep something while also using it.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.