dust and ashes

Something that promises pleasure or fulfillment but results in disappointment or disillusionment. The phrase is used in the Bible to describe the unpleasant taste of an appealing-looking fruit. She was a shopaholic until she realized that material possessions are nothing but dust and ashes. I'd rather be single than be in a relationship with the wrong person because that is just dust and ashes. Money can't buy happiness, can it? No, it's like dust and ashes that way.

dust and ashes

used to convey a feeling of great disappointment or disillusion about something.

Often found in the fuller form turn to dust and ashes in your mouth , the phrase is used in the Bible as a metaphor for worthlessness, for example in Genesis 18:27 and the Book of Job 30:19. It derives from the legend of the Sodom apple, or Dead Sea fruit, whose attractive appearance tempted people, but which tasted only of dust and ashes when eaten.