得不偿失
The game is not worth the candle.
Give a lark to catch a kite.
Pay dear for the whistle.
More kicks than halfpence.

eg：You'll find the game is not worth the candle if you put your money on that horse.

中英俚语俗语来源：苏轼诗：“感时磋事变，所得不偿失。”

同义词：以珠弹雀 Not worth powder and shot.
反义词：一本万利 Light gains make heavy purses.