Here's a breakdown:
* No free lunch: This saying is a popular expression of the same idea. It implies that even seemingly free things have a cost associated with them.
* Hidden costs: There might be indirect costs like time, effort, resources, or opportunity costs (missing out on something else) involved.
* Trade-offs: Every choice has a consequence, and even when you get something for free, you might be giving up something else.
* Value and effort: Things that are valuable often require effort, time, or resources to obtain.
Examples:
* "Free" trials often lead to subscriptions. You might get a free trial of a service, but you'll likely be charged after the trial period unless you cancel.
* "Free" products often have hidden costs. A "free" app might require you to buy in-app purchases or provide personal data.
* "Free" advice might come with ulterior motives. Someone might offer you "free" advice, but they might be hoping to gain something from you in return.
In essence, the phrase emphasizes the reality that there are always costs involved, whether they are visible or not, and that nothing is truly "free" in the truest sense of the word.