(you) can't take it with you (when you go)
proverb A warning against materialism that alludes to the fact that you can't keep your money or possessions when you die. It doesn't matter how much money you make in your lifetime—you can't take it with you when you go. Quit buying so much expensive stuff! You can't take it with you! She's 75 years old, so I don't get why she's still so worried about saving money. I mean, you can't take it with you, you know?
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
(You) can't take it with you.
Prov. Cliché Since you cannot take your wealth with you when you die, you ought to enjoy it while you're alive. Go ahead, splurge a little while you've got it. You can't take it with you. Henry: Sure, I spent a fortune on this car. Can't take it with you, you know. Rachel: And this way, you can share it with your friends.
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.