What does “Many a slip twixt cup and lip” mean?

"Many a slip twixt cup and lip" means that there are many things that can go wrong before a plan or goal is achieved.

What context can I use the in?

Example

We were so close to winning the game, but many a slip twixt cup and lip - we ended up losing.

Example

He thought he had secured the job offer, but many a slip twixt cup and lip - they ended up hiring someone else.

Example

They were confident in their project's success, but many a slip twixt cup and lip - unexpected obstacles arose and delayed their progress

Is “Many a slip twixt cup and lip” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Many a slip twixt cup and lip” 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 “Many a slip twixt cup and lip” effectively in context?

You can use "Many a slip twixt cup and lip" to express the idea that there are many things that can go wrong before a plan or goal is achieved. It emphasizes the need for caution and the understanding that success is not guaranteed until it is fully realized. For example, if someone is overly confident about the outcome of a project, you might say, 'Remember, "many a slip twixt cup and lip", so let's not celebrate prematurely.'

1Sports
They were leading the game, but many a slip twixt cup and lip - their opponents made a comeback and won.
2Job Search
He thought he had aced the interview, but many a slip twixt cup and lip - they decided to hire someone with more experience.
3Project Management
They were confident in their project's success, but many a slip twixt cup and lip - unexpected obstacles arose and delayed their progress.

Similar phrases to “Many a slip twixt cup and lip”:

Don't count your chickens before they hatch

Do not assume a favorable outcome before it actually happens

Example

He was already planning his victory party, but I reminded him, 'Don't count your chickens before they hatch.'

Expect the unexpected

Be prepared for unforeseen events or outcomes

Example

In this line of work, you always have to expect the unexpected.

Better safe than sorry

It is wiser to be cautious and take preventive measures than to regret not doing so later

Example

I always double-check my work - better safe than sorry.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Many a slip twixt cup and lip” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Many a slip twixt cup and lip" is unknown.

Is “Many a slip twixt cup and lip” common in everyday conversation?

The phrase "Many a slip twixt cup and lip" is not very common in everyday conversation. It is an older proverb that may be less familiar to beginner ESL students.

What tone does “Many a slip twixt cup and lip” have?

"Many a slip twixt cup and lip" conveys a tone of caution and realism. It reminds people to be aware of the potential pitfalls and challenges that can arise before achieving a desired outcome.

Can “Many a slip twixt cup and lip” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "Many a slip twixt cup and lip" is more formal in nature. It is often used in written or formal contexts, such as literature, speeches, or presentations.

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, 'We were so close to winning the game, but "many a slip twixt cup and lip" - we ended up losing.'

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

there's many a slip between cup and lip
a lot can go wrong before success
success is not guaranteed until it's achieved
be cautious of potential obstacles
beware of unforeseen challenges

Antonyms

smooth sailing
no obstacles in sight
everything going according to plan
success is assured
no room for error