What does “Bird in the hand is worth two in the bush” mean?
"Bird in the hand is worth two in the bush" means it's better to have something that is certain and available to you now, rather than taking a risk for something better that might not happen in the future.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I decided to accept the job offer because a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.
Example
Instead of waiting for a better opportunity, I chose to invest in the bird in the hand is worth two in the bush option.
Example
He regretted not taking the bird in the hand is worth two in the bush approach and ended up with nothing
Is “Bird in the hand is worth two in the bush” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Bird in the hand is worth two in the bush” 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 “Bird in the hand is worth two in the bush” effectively in context?
You can use "Bird in the hand is worth two in the bush" to emphasize the importance of appreciating what you already have instead of chasing after uncertain or potentially better options. Here are three distinct situations where you can use this phrase effectively:
- 1Job Offer
She decided to accept the job offer because a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.
- 2Investment
Instead of waiting for a better opportunity, I chose to invest in the bird in the hand is worth two in the bush option.
- 3Regret
He regretted not taking the bird in the hand is worth two in the bush approach and ended up with nothing.
Similar phrases to “Bird in the hand is worth two in the bush”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Bird in the hand is worth two in the bush” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Bird in the hand is worth two in the bush" can be traced back to medieval falconry. In falconry, a bird in the hand (a captured bird) was considered more valuable than two birds in the bush (birds that were still wild and could potentially escape). The phrase was later used metaphorically to convey the idea that it's better to have something certain and available to you now, rather than taking a risk for something better that might not happen in the future.
Is “Bird in the hand is worth two in the bush” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Bird in the hand is worth two in the bush" is a common proverb that is often used in everyday conversation. It conveys a valuable lesson about appreciating what you have and making wise choices.
What tone does “Bird in the hand is worth two in the bush” have?
"Bird in the hand is worth two in the bush" conveys a tone of caution and practicality. It encourages people to consider the value of certainty and stability over the allure of potential but uncertain gains.
Can “Bird in the hand is worth two in the bush” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "Bird in the hand is worth two in the bush" is commonly used in both informal and formal settings. It is a well-known proverb that can be used in various contexts, such as personal conversations, business discussions, or even in writing.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
The phrase is typically used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'I decided to take the job offer because a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Remember, a bird in the hand...' to imply the importance of appreciating what one already has.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- appreciate what you have
- don't count your chickens before they hatch
- value certainty over uncertainty
- choose the sure thing
- don't gamble on the unknown
Antonyms
- take risks for potential gains
- chase after the unknown
- don't settle for less
- go for the bigger prize
- don't be content with what you have
