What does “All your eggs in one basket” mean?

"All your eggs in one basket" means putting all of your resources or efforts into one single thing or plan.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I wouldn't recommend putting all your eggs in one basket when it comes to investing.

Example

She decided to diversify her investments instead of putting all her eggs in one basket.

Example

He learned the hard way that putting all your eggs in one basket can be risky

Is “All your eggs in one basket” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“All your eggs in one basket” 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 “All your eggs in one basket” effectively in context?

You can use "All your eggs in one basket" to caution someone against putting all their resources or efforts into one single thing or plan. For example, if a friend is considering investing all their money in a single stock, you might say, 'I wouldn't recommend putting "all your eggs in one basket" when it comes to investing.'

1Investing
I wouldn't recommend putting all your eggs in one basket when it comes to investing.
2Financial Planning
She decided to diversify her investments instead of putting all her eggs in one basket.
3Risk Management
He learned the hard way that putting all your eggs in one basket can be risky.

Similar phrases to “All your eggs in one basket”:

Don't count your chickens before they hatch

To not make plans based on something that may not happen

Example

He was already planning his victory celebration, but I told him, 'Don't count your chickens before they hatch.'

Spread yourself too thin

To try to do too many things at once, resulting in reduced effectiveness

Example

She was involved in so many activities that she spread herself too thin and couldn't give her best to any of them.

Put all your cards on the table

To reveal all of your intentions or resources in a situation

Example

In negotiations, it's important to be strategic and not put all your cards on the table too soon.

Have a backup plan

To have an alternative plan in case the original plan fails

Example

It's always wise to have a backup plan in case things don't go as expected.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “All your eggs in one basket” come from?

The origin of the phrase "All your eggs in one basket" is unknown.

Is “All your eggs in one basket” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "All your eggs in one basket" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to advise against relying too heavily on a single plan or investment.

What tone does “All your eggs in one basket” have?

"All your eggs in one basket" conveys a tone of caution and risk management. It's often used to highlight the importance of diversification and spreading out resources or efforts.

Can “All your eggs in one basket” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "All your eggs in one basket" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of avoiding excessive reliance on a single strategy or plan. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.

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

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She decided to diversify her investments instead of "putting all her eggs in one basket".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Don't put "all your eggs in one basket"!' to imply the need for diversification.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

bet the farm
rely on one option
concentrate all efforts in one place
put all resources in one place
bank everything on one thing

Antonyms

diversify
keep your options open
spread out
cover all bases
have multiple options