icing on the cake
Meaning(s)
1. an additional positive that makes something good even better
Popularity
High
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
that's just the icing on the cake
Analysis
In a literal sense, icing is an inessential sugary coating applied to a cake, often for decorative purposes. Figuratively, therefore, this expression is generally used in a positive sense to refer to an already good situation being made even better by the addition of something. Occasionally, however, 'icing on the cake' can be used in a sarcastic manner in relation to something negative. The term is common in both a social and professional environment and is similar to the phrase 'cherry on top.'
Social Examples (Basic)
- The game was already won by that point, so the fourth goal was just the icing on the cake.
- I had a disastrous day at work, and my car breaking down on my way home was the icing on the cake.
Professional Examples (Basic)
- Getting the deal over the line was my main goal. Getting a bonus was really just icing on the cake.
- I love my job and the generous salary and company perks are really the icing on the cake.