What does “Even a broken clock is right twice a day” mean?
"Even a broken clock is right twice a day" means that even if something is usually wrong or unreliable, it can still be correct or accurate occasionally.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I know he's not the best at math, but even a broken clock is right twice a day.
Example
Her predictions may not always come true, but even a broken clock is right twice a day.
Example
The weather forecast is often wrong, but even a broken clock is right twice a day
Is “Even a broken clock is right twice a day” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Even a broken clock is right twice a day” 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 “Even a broken clock is right twice a day” effectively in context?
You can use "Even a broken clock is right twice a day" to express the idea that even if someone or something is usually wrong or unreliable, they can still be correct or accurate occasionally. For example, if a friend often gives incorrect advice, you might say, 'I know he's not the best at math, but even a broken clock is right twice a day.'
- 1Knowledge or Expertise
Her predictions may not always come true, but even a broken clock is right twice a day.
- 2Weather Forecast
The weather forecast is often wrong, but even a broken clock is right twice a day.
- 3General Reliability
I know he's not the best at math, but even a broken clock is right twice a day.
Similar phrases to “Even a broken clock is right twice a day”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Even a broken clock is right twice a day” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Even a broken clock is right twice a day" is unknown.
Is “Even a broken clock is right twice a day” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Even a broken clock is right twice a day" is a common proverb in everyday conversation. It is often used to emphasize the possibility of occasional correctness or accuracy, even from unreliable sources.
What tone does “Even a broken clock is right twice a day” have?
"Even a broken clock is right twice a day" conveys a tone of acceptance and acknowledgement. It acknowledges that even flawed or unreliable things can have moments of correctness or accuracy.
Can “Even a broken clock is right twice a day” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Even a broken clock is right twice a day" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a widely recognized proverb that conveys the idea of occasional correctness or accuracy despite overall unreliability. You can use it in various situations, such as casual conversations with friends or colleagues, as well as in more formal discussions or 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, 'Her predictions may not always come true, but even a broken clock is right twice a day.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the proverb even if used alone, like saying 'Even a broken clock is right twice a day!' to imply the possibility of occasional correctness or accuracy.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- occasionally, even the wrong can be right
- sometimes even the unreliable can be accurate
- even the worst can have moments of correctness
- intermittent accuracy amidst overall unreliability
Antonyms
- consistently wrong
- never right
- always unreliable
- perpetual inaccuracy
