you can't make an omelet without breaking eggs

Meaning: Achieving something worthwhile involves some loss or damage.

Language: English

Literally: (Already vivid in English)

Example: “Some staff will be unhappy with the changes, but you can't make an omelet without breaking eggs.”

Category: Food & Drink

Origin: A translation of the French proverb "on ne fait pas d'omelette sans casser des œufs," recorded in English from the 19th century.

Equivalents in other languages

French: On ne fait pas d'omelette sans casser des œufs — literally: You can't make an omelette without breaking eggs

in a pickle — In a difficult situation.
jam tomorrow — A promise of good things in the future that never arrive.
no picnic — Not easy or pleasant.
a poisoned chalice — Something that seems attractive but brings trouble to whoever accepts it.
think the moon is made of green cheese — To be very gullible.
grab a bite — To eat something quickly.

have one's work cut out — To face a difficult task.
mum's the word — Keep this secret; say nothing.
hale and hearty — Healthy and strong, especially in old age.
find one's sea legs — To get used to a boat's movement; to grow comfortable in a new situation.
break a leg — Good luck, said to a performer before going on stage.
hey presto — Said when something happens suddenly, as if by magic.

It is the thrift of a spendthrift which ruins him most effectually. — Excessive caution about isolated expenses blinds wastrels to their broader financial dest…
Who hath spice enough may season his meat as he pleaseth. — Wealth and resources grant freedom to customize life according to personal preference rat…
Don't cut your nose off to spite your face. — Self-destructive revenge harms you more than your enemy.