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A bad beginning makes a bad ending.: Learn what the means through example!

What does “A bad beginning makes a bad ending.” mean?

"A bad beginning makes a bad ending" means that it is better to be content with what one has than to risk losing it by trying to attain something more. This proverb suggests that it is better to have something certain and tangible, rather than something that is uncertain and may not be achieved.

What context can I use the in?

Example

He was warned that a bad beginning makes a bad ending. However, he still decided to take the risk and ended up losing everything.

Example

She was satisfied with her current job and didn't want to take any risks. She believed that a bad beginning makes a bad ending.

Example

They were tempted to invest all their savings in a risky business venture. But they remembered the saying that a bad beginning makes a bad ending and decided against it

Is “A bad beginning makes a bad ending.” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“A bad beginning makes a bad ending.” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “A bad beginning makes a bad ending.” effectively in context?

You can use "A bad beginning makes a bad ending" to caution someone against taking unnecessary risks or pursuing uncertain opportunities. It emphasizes the importance of being content with what one has rather than risking it for something that may not be achieved. For example, if a friend is considering quitting their stable job to start a risky business, you might say, 'Remember, a bad beginning makes a bad ending. It's better to be content with what you have than to risk losing everything.'

  • 1Career

    He was warned that a bad beginning makes a bad ending. However, he still decided to take the risk and ended up losing everything.

  • 2Contentment

    She was satisfied with her current job and didn't want to take any risks. She believed that a bad beginning makes a bad ending.

  • 3Financial Decisions

    They were tempted to invest all their savings in a risky business venture. But they remembered the saying that a bad beginning makes a bad ending and decided against it.

Similar phrases to “A bad beginning makes a bad ending.”:

Look before you leap

To think carefully about the possible consequences before taking action

Example

Before investing all your money, make sure to look before you leap.

Better safe than sorry

To choose the safer option to avoid potential regrets or negative outcomes

Example

She decided to take the longer route to avoid traffic. Better safe than sorry.

A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush

It is better to hold onto something certain and tangible than to risk it for something uncertain and potentially greater

Example

He decided to keep his current job instead of pursuing a higher-paying opportunity. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “A bad beginning makes a bad ending.” come from?

The origin of the phrase "A bad beginning makes a bad ending" is unknown.

Is “A bad beginning makes a bad ending.” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "A bad beginning makes a bad ending" is a well-known proverb that is commonly used in everyday conversation. People often use it to caution others against taking unnecessary risks or pursuing uncertain opportunities.

What tone does “A bad beginning makes a bad ending.” have?

"A bad beginning makes a bad ending" conveys a tone of caution and wisdom. It is often used to advise against impulsive actions and encourage contentment with what one already has.

Can “A bad beginning makes a bad ending.” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "A bad beginning makes a bad ending" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a widely recognized proverb that conveys the idea of being cautious and content. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or written communication.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He ignored the warning and took the risk, but as they say, a bad beginning makes a bad ending.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the proverb even if used alone, like saying 'Remember, "a bad beginning makes a bad ending"!' to caution someone against a risky decision.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

Antonyms

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