What does “Catch the bear before you sell his skin” mean?

"Catch the bear before you sell his skin" means don't count on something before you have it.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I know you're excited about the job offer, but catch the bear before you sell his skin. Wait until you have the official offer letter before celebrating.

Example

You shouldn't start making plans for the weekend until you know for sure if you have to work. Remember, catch the bear before you sell his skin.

Example

I understand you're confident about winning the game, but catch the bear before you sell his skin. Anything can happen, so don't get too ahead of yourself

Is “Catch the bear before you sell his skin” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Catch the bear before you sell his skin” 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 “Catch the bear before you sell his skin” effectively in context?

You can use "Catch the bear before you sell his skin" to emphasize the importance of securing or obtaining something before assuming or planning for its benefits or rewards. It's a cautionary proverb that advises against counting on something before it's actually in your possession. For example, if a friend is already making plans for a promotion before it's been confirmed, you might say, 'Don't count your chickens before they hatch. Catch the bear before you sell his skin. Make sure you have everything in place before expecting any results.'

1Financial Planning
Before investing in a business opportunity, it's important to catch the bear before you sell his skin and thoroughly research the potential risks and rewards.
2Expectations
You shouldn't start celebrating yet. Catch the bear before you sell his skin. It's better to be cautious and make sure you have what you need first.
3Preparation
Before you start making plans, remember to catch the bear before you sell his skin. It's always better to be prepared and have everything in order.

Similar phrases to “Catch the bear before you sell his skin”:

Don't count your chickens before they hatch

Don't assume or expect something before it actually happens or becomes a reality.

Example

Before celebrating your victory, remember not to count your chickens before they hatch.

Look before you leap

Think carefully and consider the consequences before taking action.

Example

Before making a decision, it's important to look before you leap.

Measure twice, cut once

Take the time to double-check your work or decisions to avoid mistakes or regrets.

Example

Before finalizing the design, remember to measure twice, cut once.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Catch the bear before you sell his skin” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Catch the bear before you sell his skin" is unknown.

Is “Catch the bear before you sell his skin” common in everyday conversation?

The phrase "Catch the bear before you sell his skin" is not very common in everyday conversation, especially among beginner ESL students. It is more commonly used in formal writing or in specific contexts where caution and preparation are emphasized.

What tone does “Catch the bear before you sell his skin” have?

"Catch the bear before you sell his skin" conveys a tone of caution and prudence. It warns against being overly optimistic or assuming success before taking the necessary steps to secure or obtain something.

Can “Catch the bear before you sell his skin” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "Catch the bear before you sell his skin" is more formal in nature. It is often used in formal writing, such as essays, articles, or speeches, to convey a sense of wisdom and prudence. However, it can also be used in informal conversations to emphasize the importance of being prepared and cautious.

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

The phrase "Catch the bear before you sell his skin" is typically used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'Before investing in that business opportunity, remember to catch the bear before you sell his skin.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Catch the bear before you sell his skin!' to imply the need for caution and preparation.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

secure the prize before celebrating
ensure success before expecting rewards
prepare before assuming
obtain before planning
get the facts before making assumptions

Antonyms

count your chickens before they hatch
celebrate before securing
assume before preparing
plan before obtaining
make assumptions without getting the facts