Proceed with caution

[0779] Better safe than sorry

🎲 Don't push your luck
English Idioms
All Idioms

Explanation

  • An idiom or proverb stating that it is wiser to take precautions and be careful (safe) rather than risk experiencing negative consequences later (sorry).
  • Used to justify taking a cautious action, even if it might seem unnecessary at the time.

Origin

  • A long-standing proverb reflecting a common-sense approach to risk management.
  • Variations have existed for centuries in English and other languages, embodying the principle of prudence.

Synonyms & Related Expressions

  • It pays to be careful.
  • An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. (Proverb with similar meaning)
  • Err on the side of caution. (Act in the safest way possible when unsure)
  • Play it safe.
  • Just in case. (Explains the reason for precaution)

Alternatives

Slang/Informal:

  • Play it safe.
  • Cover your bases. (Make sure all possibilities/risks are addressed)
  • No harm in being careful.

Milder/Standard:

  • It's wise to be cautious.
  • Let's err on the side of caution.
  • Prudence suggests... (More formal)

Situational Appropriateness

  • Very common and appropriate in most informal and semi-formal situations.
  • Widely accepted piece of folk wisdom.

Misunderstanding Warnings

  • Almost never misunderstood due to its commonality as an idiom. The meaning is generally transparent.

Examples

  • I'll take an umbrella, even though it looks sunny. Better safe than sorry.
  • Let's double-check that the stove is off before we leave. Better safe than sorry.
  • He backs up his computer files every day. Better safe than sorry.

Dialogue

Alex: Do you think I need to bring my heavy coat? The forecast only says a small chance of cold weather.

Jamie: Hmm, mountain weather can change quickly. Better safe than sorry, I'd say. Bring it just in case.

Alex: Yeah, you're probably right. Okay, I'll pack it.

Social Media Examples

  • Post: Just bought travel insurance for my weekend trip. Probably won't need it, but better safe than sorry! #travel #safetyfirst
  • Reply: Why did you change your password? -> Because of that news about data breaches. Better safe than sorry. #cybersecurity

Response Patterns

  • You're right. / That's true.
  • Good point.
  • Yeah, I suppose so.
  • Agreement, often followed by taking the precaution.

Common Follow-up Questions/Actions

  • Usually concludes the reasoning for taking a precaution.
  • The listener typically agrees or accepts the logic.
  • The precautionary action is then often taken without further debate.

Conversation Starter

  • No. Used to justify or explain a cautious action or decision within a conversation.

Intonation

  • Often said with a conclusive, matter-of-fact, or slightly sing-song proverbial tone.
  • Stress is often balanced across Better safe and than sorry.
  • Example: Better safe than sorry.

Generation Differences

  • Extremely common and well-known across all generations. A staple proverb.

Regional Variations

  • Universally used and understood in all English-speaking regions.
Proceed with caution
🎲 Don't push your luck