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Don’t count your chickens before they hatch

Definition

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The idiom “Don’t count your chickens before they hatch” is a cautionary saying that advises against making assumptions or predictions about something before it actually happens or becomes a reality. It’s like saying you shouldn’t start celebrating or planning for success until you’re certain it will happen. The phrase originates from the world of farming and agriculture, where eggs are hatched into chicks. Farmers would often count the number of eggs they had and make plans based on the assumption that all of them would successfully hatch. However, not all eggs would actually hatch, and counting the unhatched eggs would lead to disappointment and unfulfilled expectations.

In a broader sense, this idiom reminds us to be cautious about being too confident or optimistic about future outcomes. It encourages us to be patient and wait for something to actually happen before we start making plans or assuming a particular result.

Example sentences

Don’t get too excited about the party until it’s confirmed, don’t count your chickens before they hatch!

Hold off on making vacation plans until you have the tickets in hand, don’t count your chickens before they hatch.

Don’t start celebrating your victory until the game is actually over, don’t count your chickens before they hatch.

It’s great that you’re optimistic, but remember not to count your chickens before they hatch when it comes to your job interview.

Don’t start spending your potential bonus until it’s officially announced, don’t count your chickens before they hatch.

Famous dialogues

Iconic Movie Lines

Classic Quotes

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Movie Catchphrases

Cinematic Dialogues

Memorable Movie Lines

A "meteoric rise" refers to a swift and remarkable ascent to success, similar to a meteor's rapid path through the sky. While this rapid success can be exhilarating, it can also imperil long-term stability if not managed carefully, leading to arrogant behavior and potential pitfalls. To sustain such success, it is crucial to condense the lessons learned and remain grounded. By focusing on long-term goals and preparing for challenges, one can build a resilient foundation for future achievements.

Up a creek without a paddle

The idiom "up a creek without a paddle" describes being in a difficult situation with no apparent solution, likening it to being stranded on a river without a means to navigate. It underscores a state of helplessness and often implies a lack of preparation. For example, a project manager facing unexpected challenges without key resources would feel the pressure of impending deadlines and client expectations. Despite the difficulty, resourcefulness and resilience can help one find a way out of such predicaments.

To buy a lemon

Overall, the idiom “to buy a lemon” serves as a warning to be careful when making purchases and to be aware of the possibility of ending up with something that is not as good as it seems at first glance.

Under a cloud

In summary, the idiom “under a cloud” symbolizes a period of difficulty or uncertainty in a person’s life, where they face challenges in their reputation or circumstances.

Keep someone in the loop

"Keeping someone in the loop" is the act of ensuring individuals are informed and included in relevant communication or decision-making processes. This practice fosters transparency, collaboration, and alignment within teams or relationships. By regularly updating others on important matters, sharing progress reports, and notifying them of changes, it cultivates a culture of openness and mutual respect while preventing misunderstandings.

Don’t count your chickens before they hatch

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