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The meaning and origin of the expression: A fool's paradise

A fool's paradise

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What's the meaning of the phrase 'A fool's paradise'?

A state of happiness based on false hope.

What's the origin of the phrase 'A fool's paradise'?

This is an early phrase, first recorded in the Paston Letters, 1462:

"I wold not be in a folis paradyce."

The meaning and origin of the expression 'A fool's paradise'Shakespeare later used it in Romeo and Juliet, 1592.

Nurse:
Now, afore God, I am so vexed, that every part about me quivers. Scurvy knave! Pray you, sir, a word: and as I told you, my young lady bade me inquire you out; what she bade me say, I will keep to myself: but first let me tell ye, if ye should lead her into a fool's paradise, as they say, it were a very gross kind of behavior, as they say: for the gentlewoman is young; and, therefore, if you should deal double with her, truly it were an ill thing to be offered to any gentlewoman, and very weak dealing.

Gary Martin - the author of the phrases.org.uk website.

By Gary Martin

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