What does “Better the devil you know” mean?
"Better the devil you know" means it is better to deal with a familiar or known problem or situation, even if it is not ideal, than to risk dealing with an unknown or unfamiliar problem.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I decided to stay in my current job because better the devil you know.
Example
I chose to stick with my old car instead of buying a new one because better the devil you know.
Example
Even though my apartment is small, I decided not to move because better the devil you know
Is “Better the devil you know” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Better the devil you know” 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 “Better the devil you know” effectively in context?
You can use "Better the devil you know" to express the idea that it is often wiser to stick with a familiar or known problem or situation, even if it is not ideal, rather than taking a risk with an unknown or unfamiliar problem. For example, if a friend is considering leaving their current job for a new opportunity, you might say, 'I understand the new job seems tempting, but "better the devil you know". You already know what to expect in your current job.'
- 1Job
She decided to stay in her current job because better the devil you know.
- 2Buying a car
He chose to stick with his old car instead of buying a new one because better the devil you know.
- 3Housing
Even though the apartment is small, she decided not to move because better the devil you know.
Similar phrases to “Better the devil you know”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Better the devil you know” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Better the devil you know" is unknown.
Is “Better the devil you know” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Better the devil you know" is a common proverb used in everyday conversation. It is often used to express the idea of choosing a familiar or known situation over an unknown or unfamiliar one.
What tone does “Better the devil you know” have?
"Better the devil you know" conveys a tone of caution and practicality. It suggests that it is often safer or more sensible to stick with what is known, even if it is not ideal, rather than taking a risk with something unknown.
Can “Better the devil you know” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "Better the devil you know" is commonly used in both informal and formal settings. It is a well-known proverb that can be used in various situations to convey the idea of choosing familiarity over uncertainty. It can be used in conversations with friends, family, colleagues, as well as in more formal contexts such as presentations or writing.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
The phrase is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'I decided to stay in my current job because "better the devil you know".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to stick with "the devil you know"!' to imply the choice of familiarity over uncertainty.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- stick with the familiar
- choose the known over the unknown
- prefer the devil you know
- opt for the familiar
Antonyms
- take a leap of faith
- embrace the unknown
- explore new horizons
- venture into the unfamiliar
