THE IDIOM COLLECTION LEARN & PRACTISE
The best of both worlds
Understand the meaning. See it in context. Make it yours.
01 / UNDERSTAND
Meaning in plain English
The advantages of two different situations enjoyed together.
02 / SEE IT IN CONTEXT
The expression in a sentence
- The hybrid course gives me the best of both worlds: online flexibility and classroom discussion.
03 / CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING
Quick idiom quiz
Try the question without looking back, then write a sentence of your own. You can retry as often as you like.
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Can you recall the expression?
Complete the example using the expression from this lesson.
The hybrid course gives me ________: online flexibility and classroom discussion.
Show the answer
The best of both worlds — The advantages of two different situations enjoyed together.
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Make it yours
Write one sentence using “The best of both worlds” about your own life.
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Does your sentence match this meaning?
The advantages of two different situations enjoyed together.
Compare: The hybrid course gives me the best of both worlds: online flexibility and classroom discussion.
Check the spelling and how the expression fits the sentence. Your example can be different.
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More ways to understand and use it
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When to use it
Use this expression when a choice combines two benefits that might otherwise require different options. Name both benefits so the listener sees the connection.
More examples in context
- Living near a quiet park and a busy town centre offers the best of both worlds.
- A small team within a large organisation can sometimes enjoy the best of both worlds.
Usage note
Keep the and the plural worlds. The expression concerns combining advantages; it does not guarantee that there are no disadvantages. Both refers to two sides or situations.
A short conversation
A: Why did you choose the hybrid class?
B: It gives me the best of both worlds: flexible study and face-to-face practice.
A: That sounds like a useful balance.
One more practice question
Which option offers the best of both worlds?
A. A course combining the flexibility you want with the live discussion you also value.
B. A course offering neither of the two benefits you want.
Check your answer
A. The option combines advantages from two different approaches.
Related lessons
Meaning and usage checked against Cambridge Dictionary. Explanations, examples and conversation are original.