Corporate America, a land of buzzwords and baffling phrases, has gifted us with many perplexing sayings. Yet, none may be as stubbornly persistent and fundamentally flawed as: “You can’t compare apples to oranges.” This idiom, drilled into the minds of office workers everywhere, is meant to halt any attempt at what’s deemed an “unfair” comparison. Before you finish reading this, someone, somewhere, is likely being told they’re making an apples to oranges comparison.
But let’s pause and actually consider this. Has it ever struck you how utterly illogical this saying is?
Of course, you can compare apples to oranges. It’s not just possible; it’s ridiculously easy. Prepare for some metaphorical blasphemy as we dare to do the unthinkable: compare apples and oranges.
- Both apples and oranges are fruits.
- They both grow on trees, basking in the sun.
- Each is delightfully juicy and offers a sweet taste.
- Both apples and oranges are vibrant in color, adding beauty to our fruit bowls.
- Need more proof? Imagine being pelted by either an apple or an orange. Neither would be a pleasant experience. And frankly, if you tell me not to compare apples to oranges again, I might just try it.
Alt text: Side-by-side comparison of an apple and an orange, showcasing similar fruit textures and vibrant colors.
The real question is, when did comparison necessitate complete and utter sameness? Imagine this: you’re at a sophisticated restaurant, overwhelmed by the menu. You ask the waiter, “I’m torn between the Lobster Thermidor and the Roast Chicken. Which do you suggest?” And the waiter, aghast, replies, “Sir, I cannot possibly assist. We can only make Lobster to Lobster comparisons here.”
See the absurdity? Hopefully, you’re following along. Do I need to create a PowerPoint deck to illustrate this further?
Look, the sentiment behind “you can’t compare apples to oranges” is vaguely understandable. Yes, comparisons should be relevant and fair, and misleading analogies can lead to poor choices. However, the idiom itself is weak because apples and oranges are actually quite comparable. Confusing them poses no real danger.
Why not use more potent examples for incomparable things? “You can’t compare a chainsaw to a feather duster,” or “a nuclear bomb to a birthday balloon,” or “Paris to a parking lot.” These are things that truly defy comparison, and mixing them up would have genuinely disastrous consequences. These comparisons would actually make sense.
Perhaps we should stick to the wisdom of “can’t see the forest for the trees.” At least that idiom has a point.
Alt text: Cartoon depiction of an apple and an orange standing together, expressing confusion and annoyance, symbolizing the idiom’s frustration.
