eat one's heart out

Idioms are generally defined as groups of words that form a meaningful whole when they come together, even though the words in them do not make sense on their own. They have produced many idioms according to their own cultural characteristics in communities using the English language. What does eat one's heart out mean? In what situations is eat one's heart out used?

Meaning of "eat one's heart out"

Meaning

The idiom 'eat one's heart out' is used to express a feeling of intense envy or jealousy. The phrase suggests that the feeling is so strong that it is as if the person in question is literally eating away at their own heart.

Etymology

The origin of the phrase 'eat one's heart out' is not known for certain. It is speculated that the phrase originated in the late 1600s. The origin may have come from the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, in which Orpheus descends into the underworld and attempts to bring his beloved Eurydice back. He is nearly successful, but he fails because he looks back to make sure she is following him and thus loses the chance to save her. It is possible that this myth gave rise to the phrase because of Orpheus's profound grief and heartache.

Usage

The idiom 'eat one's heart out' is mainly used in informal contexts. It is typically said to someone who is feeling jealous of another's success or happiness. It is usually said in a sympathetic or consoling way, to indicate that the person should not be so hard on themselves and that their feelings of envy or jealousy are understandable. It can also be used to express a sense of humorous resignation when someone is unable to obtain something they have been wanting.

Example Sentences

• Don't eat your heart out just because your friends got better grades than you. You still did well!
• I know you wanted the job, but don't eat your heart out. It just wasn't meant to be.
• Ah, don't eat your heart out. He's not worth it.

Beyond the Literal: Figurative Language in Idioms

Idioms often use figurative language to convey a message that is not meant to be taken literally. For instance, the idiom "bite the bullet" means to endure a painful or difficult situation without complaint, while "hold your horses" means to be patient and wait. Other idioms, like "kick the bucket" or "pop your clogs," use euphemisms to talk about death.