There are a number of commonly used English phrases with roses. Find out what it means to say that 'everything is coming up roses' and learn how to look through 'rose-coloured glasses'.
The phrase 'there is no rose without thorns' means that in order to enjoy something that is beautiful and pleasurable, you must endure something that is difficult or painful.
"It is a very well-paid job and I know I will love it, but travelling for an hour and 30 minutes each day by train will be difficult. Oh well, there is no rose without thorns."
'A rose among the thorns', or 'a rose between the thorns', refers to a flower (something of beauty) that stands among thorns (something that is not of any significant beauty).
The phrase is usually said in jest and as a compliment when there is a woman with a group of men.
"They wanted to take a family picture but there was only one female in the group of seven males and everyone wanted to stand next to her. That's what happens when there is a rose among the thorns."
To look at a situation through 'rose-coloured glasses', or 'rose-tinted glasses', means to be optimistic or hopeful. The situation may be challenging or difficult, but someone can decide to look at it in a positive way.
"I haven't finished my English assignment and the deadline is this afternoon, but I'm looking at it with rose-coloured glasses."
To 'stop and smell the roses' means to take time to appreciate and reflect on the meaningful and positive aspects of life.
"I was so busy with work and study that I forgot to stop and smell the roses."
If 'everything is coming up roses', then the situation is going really well.
"I just started attending a new English class. Everything's coming up roses."
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