- Think carefully about the possible consequences before taking action, especially a significant or risky one.
- It advises caution and consideration before committing to something.
Explanation
Origin
- An old proverb, likely derived from observing animals or people needing to check the landing spot before jumping.
- Versions appear in literature dating back centuries (e.g., referenced in Chaucer, similar ideas in Aesop's Fables).
- It emphasizes foresight and planning over impulsive behavior.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Hold your horses. (Slow down, wait)
- Don't rush into it.
- Scope it out first. (Investigate before acting)
- Peep the scene first. (Urban slang: observe the situation)
Milder:
- Maybe take some time to consider it.
- It might be wise to plan carefully.
- Have you weighed the pros and cons?
More Formal:
- Exercise due diligence.
- Conduct a thorough assessment before proceeding.
Situational Appropriateness
- Appropriate in most contexts, informal to formal, when advising caution.
- Useful in personal life, business decisions, and planning.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Ensure learners understand it's figurative advice about thinking and planning, not literally looking and jumping.
- It's about mental foresight, not physical action.
Examples
- Investing all your money in one stock seems risky. Look before you leap.
- Before quitting your job, look before you leap and make sure you have a plan.
- He accepted the first offer without negotiation. He really should have looked before he leaped.
Dialogue
Maria: I'm thinking of moving to Spain next month! I just booked a one-way ticket!
David: Wow, that's a big step! Have you thought about visas, jobs, housing? Look before you leap, Maria.
Maria: Oh, right. Maybe I should research those things first. Thanks, David.
Social Media Examples
- Post: Feeling impulsive about a big purchase... reminding myself to look before I leap! 😅 #adulting #finance
- Tweet: Startup founders: Excitement is great, but look before you leap into scaling too fast. #startup #advice
- Comment: Thinking of switching careers? Great! But look before you leap talk to people in the field first.
Response Patterns
- You're right, I should think this through more.
- I know, I know, but I'm just excited.
- Good advice, thanks.
- What do you think I should consider? (Asking for specifics)
- Don't worry, I've already thought about it.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After acknowledging the advice (You're right):
- The person might start discussing the potential risks or planning steps (Okay, so what are the downsides?, Maybe I should research more first.).
- The advisor might offer specific points to consider (Have you thought about the financial implications?, What's your backup plan?).
After asking for specifics (What should I consider?):
- The advisor provides targeted advice based on the situation.
Conversation Starter
- No. It's advice given in response to someone planning or considering an action.
Intonation
- Stress on LOOK and LEAP. LOOK before you LEAP.
- Often delivered in a cautionary or advisory tone.
Generation Differences
- A traditional proverb, well-understood by older generations, but the concept is relevant to all. Younger generations might use more modern alternatives like Think it through.
Regional Variations
- Widely understood in all major English-speaking regions.