What does “If it ain't broke, don't fix it” mean?
"If it ain't broke, don't fix it" means that if something is working fine, there's no need to make any changes or improvements to it.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The old computer may be slow, but if it ain't broke, don't fix it.
Example
The car has a few scratches, but if it ain't broke, don't fix it.
Example
The recipe has been passed down for generations, so if it ain't broke, don't fix it
Is “If it ain't broke, don't fix it” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“If it ain't broke, don't fix it” 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 “If it ain't broke, don't fix it” effectively in context?
You can use "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" to emphasize the importance of leaving something alone if it's functioning well. It suggests that making unnecessary changes or improvements can do more harm than good. For example, if a friend suggests upgrading your phone even though it's still working perfectly fine, you can respond with 'If it ain't broke, don't fix it.'
- 1Technology
The old computer may be slow, but if it ain't broke, don't fix it.
- 2Physical Objects
The car has a few scratches, but if it ain't broke, don't fix it.
- 3Traditions
The recipe has been passed down for generations, so if it ain't broke, don't fix it.
Similar phrases to “If it ain't broke, don't fix it”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “If it ain't broke, don't fix it” come from?
The origin of the phrase "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" is unknown.
Is “If it ain't broke, don't fix it” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" is a common proverb used in everyday conversation. It's often used to express the idea that if something is working well, there's no need to make unnecessary changes or improvements.
What tone does “If it ain't broke, don't fix it” have?
"If it ain't broke, don't fix it" conveys a tone of caution and wisdom. It suggests that sometimes it's best to leave things as they are if they are functioning properly.
Can “If it ain't broke, don't fix it” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" is informal and commonly used in casual conversations. It's not typically used in formal or professional settings.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as a standalone phrase to convey its full meaning. For example, you can simply say '"If it ain't broke, don't fix it"' to suggest that there's no need to make any changes or improvements to something that is already working well.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- let sleeping dogs lie
- don't tamper with success
- don't mess with a good thing
- don't meddle with what works
- if it's not broke, don't tinker with it
Antonyms
- improve upon perfection
- fix what isn't broken
- change for the sake of change
- always seek improvement
- constantly update and upgrade
