æn ˈæpəl ə deɪ kiːps ðə ˈdɑktər əˈweɪ
- Literally:
- Eating one apple every day prevents the need to visit a doctor
What does "an apple a day keeps the doctor away" mean?
- Eating fruit or having a healthy diet helps maintain good health
- Prevention is better than cure
Examples
- I always have fruit for breakfast—an apple a day keeps the doctor away.
- My grandmother lived to 95 and believed that an apple a day keeps the doctor away.
- She packed an apple in her lunch, saying an apple a day keeps the doctor away.
Origin
This proverb originated in 19th-century Wales. The original phrase was 'Eat an apple on going to bed, and you'll keep the doctor from earning his bread' (1866). The modern version emerged in the early 20th century.
How to use it
One of the most well-known English proverbs. Used to encourage healthy eating habits. Sometimes used humorously or ironically.
Similar expressions
Related idioms
- piece of cake
Something very easy to do
- a piece of cake
Something very easy to do
- in a nutshell
In a very brief or concise form
- bite off more than you can chew
To take on more responsibility or work than one can handle
- don't put all your eggs in one basket
Don't risk everything on a single opportunity
- not your cup of tea
Not something you enjoy or are interested in
Use it in a practice answer
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