the-icing-on-the-cake
/ðə ˌaɪ.sɪŋ ɒn ðə keɪk/ IELTSAcademic
idiom
Something extra that makes a good situation even better. It is not necessary, but it adds pleasure or value.
- Getting a bonus was the icing on the cake.
- The trip was great, and the weather was icing on the cake.
- Her promotion was the icing on the cake.
Adinary Nuance
Use the icing on the cake for an extra benefit after something already good. It is close to bonus, extra, and cherry on top, but it feels more conversational and positive. It suggests the main thing is already complete, and this part makes it even better.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- phần thưởng thêm
- Spanish
- la guinda del pastel
- Chinese
- 锦上添花
- Japanese
- 仕上げのひと押し
- Korean
- 화룡점정
Etymology
This phrase comes from the idea of decorating a cake with icing after baking. It became common in English in the 20th century as a figurative expression.
Common phrases
the icing on the cakea perfect icing on the cakejust icing on the cake
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is the icing on the cake formal or informal?
- It is informal, but it is also common in spoken and written English.
- Can I use the icing on the cake in business writing?
- Yes, if you want a friendly, positive tone. It may sound less formal than bonus or advantage.
- What is the difference between the icing on the cake and cherry on top?
- They are very similar. Cherry on top is more casual; icing on the cake is slightly more standard.
- How do I use the icing on the cake in a sentence?
- Use it after a noun phrase or with 'was'. Example: 'The discount was the icing on the cake.'