The primrose path
noun
A life of enjoyment and pleasure, often viewed as easy but leading to bad results.
He chose the primrose path of indulgence and amusement, but ended up alone and unhappy.
Often appears as...
- choose the primrose path
- lead down the primrose path
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
noun
A life of enjoyment and pleasure, often viewed as easy but leading to bad results.
He chose the primrose path of indulgence and amusement, but ended up alone and unhappy.
Often appears as...
- choose the primrose path
- lead down the primrose path
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Metaphoric Path
Understand that 'primrose path' is a metaphor for a seductive, but potentially harmful way of life.
Beware of con artists who may lead you down the primrose path with promises of easy money.
Pro Tip 2/3Negative Outcome
It implies that pleasure may lead to unexpected consequences or a downfall.
Ignoring her studies, she wandered the primrose path until her grades suffered.
Pro Tip 3/3Shakespearean Origin
Originating from Shakespeare's play 'Hamlet', it retains a literary and formal tone.
In literary discussions, referencing the 'primrose path' adds a Shakespearean flair.
Pro Tip 1/3Metaphoric Path
Understand that 'primrose path' is a metaphor for a seductive, but potentially harmful way of life.
Beware of con artists who may lead you down the primrose path with promises of easy money.
Pro Tip 2/3Negative Outcome
It implies that pleasure may lead to unexpected consequences or a downfall.
Ignoring her studies, she wandered the primrose path until her grades suffered.
Pro Tip 3/3Shakespearean Origin
Originating from Shakespeare's play 'Hamlet', it retains a literary and formal tone.
In literary discussions, referencing the 'primrose path' adds a Shakespearean flair.
Pro Tip 1/3Metaphoric Path
Understand that 'primrose path' is a metaphor for a seductive, but potentially harmful way of life.
Beware of con artists who may lead you down the primrose path with promises of easy money.
Pro Tip 2/3Negative Outcome
It implies that pleasure may lead to unexpected consequences or a downfall.
Ignoring her studies, she wandered the primrose path until her grades suffered.
Pro Tip 3/3Shakespearean Origin
Originating from Shakespeare's play 'Hamlet', it retains a literary and formal tone.
In literary discussions, referencing the 'primrose path' adds a Shakespearean flair.
Never forget "The primrose path"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension