What does “Cross the stream where it is shallowest.” mean?
"Cross the stream where it is shallowest" means that people should take the easiest or least risky path when faced with a challenge, implying that they should avoid unnecessary risks and choose the safest option available to them.
What context can I use the in?
Example
When it comes to investing, it's always wise to cross the stream where it is shallowest. Don't take unnecessary risks.
Example
Instead of taking the longer route, they decided to cross the stream where it is shallowest. It was the safest and quickest option.
Example
In order to avoid any potential dangers, it's best to cross the stream where it is shallowest. Don't make things harder than they need to be
Is “Cross the stream where it is shallowest.” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Cross the stream where it is shallowest.” 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 “Cross the stream where it is shallowest.” effectively in context?
You can use "Cross the stream where it is shallowest" to advise someone to take the easiest or least risky path when faced with a challenge. It implies that people should avoid unnecessary risks and choose the safest option available to them. For example, if a friend is considering different job offers, you might say, 'If you want to minimize the risk, cross the stream where it is shallowest and choose the job with the most stability.'
- 1Investing
When it comes to investing, it's always wise to cross the stream where it is shallowest. Don't take unnecessary risks.
- 2Travel
Instead of taking the longer route, they decided to cross the stream where it is shallowest. It was the safest and quickest option.
- 3Problem-solving
In order to avoid any potential dangers, it's best to cross the stream where it is shallowest. Don't make things harder than they need to be.
Similar phrases to “Cross the stream where it is shallowest.”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Cross the stream where it is shallowest.” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Cross the stream where it is shallowest" is unknown.
Is “Cross the stream where it is shallowest.” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "Cross the stream where it is shallowest" is not as common in everyday conversation compared to other proverbs. However, it can still be used to convey the idea of choosing the easiest or least risky path in various situations.
What tone does “Cross the stream where it is shallowest.” have?
"Cross the stream where it is shallowest" conveys a tone of practicality and caution. It suggests making decisions based on minimizing risks and maximizing safety.
Can “Cross the stream where it is shallowest.” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "cross the stream where it is shallowest" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a metaphorical expression that can be applied to different contexts. You can use it in conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional writing.
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, 'When faced with a difficult choice, it's best to cross the stream where it is shallowest.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Remember to cross the stream where it is shallowest!' to imply choosing the easiest path.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- choose the safest option
- minimize risks
- opt for the easiest path
- avoid unnecessary risks
- take the least challenging route
Antonyms
- take the plunge
- embrace challenges
- go against the current
- take risks
- choose the difficult path