free lunch
1
看似免费的午餐, 欺骗性报价
something that appears free but actually costs something in a hidden or indirect way
The idiom "free lunch" has its origin in the practice of offering complimentary meals to patrons at bars or taverns, often as an incentive to attract customers. This tradition, prevalent in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, gave rise to the saying "there is no such thing as a free lunch." While the initial intention was to entice customers with free food, the phrase evolved into a metaphorical expression cautioning that nothing comes without a cost or hidden consequences. It is used as a reminder that even seemingly generous offers may involve trade-offs or obligations.
- The online platform claimed to offer free services, but users soon discovered there was no such thing as a free lunch when they encountered hidden fees.
该在线平台声称提供免费服务，但当用户遇到隐藏费用时，他们很快发现没有免费午餐这种东西。
- The friendliness of the salesman who offered a free lunch during the timeshare presentation raised suspicions, and attendees were wary of potential hidden costs.
在分时度假演示期间提供免费午餐的销售员的友好态度引起了怀疑，与会者对潜在的隐藏成本持谨慎态度。
- The promotional event promised a free lunch for attendees, but participants later realized they were expected to sit through a lengthy sales pitch.
促销活动承诺为与会者提供免费午餐，但参与者后来意识到他们被期望坐下来听一个冗长的销售宣传。
- The generous job offer came with a catch, making employees realize there's no such thing as a free lunch when it comes to company expectations.
慷慨的工作机会有一个陷阱，让员工意识到在公司的期望方面没有免费午餐这种东西。
- The credit card promotion advertised a free lunch voucher as a sign-up bonus, but careful readers discovered the associated terms and conditions.
信用卡促销广告宣传注册奖金为免费午餐券，但细心的读者发现了相关的条款和条件。