Run before you can walk: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Run before you can walk” mean?

"Run before you can walk" means to try to do something difficult or advanced before you have learned or mastered the basics.

What context can I use the in?

Example

He tried to run before he could walk and ended up injuring himself.

Example

It's important to run before you can walk when learning a new skill.

Example

She attempted to run before she could walk by taking on a challenging project without prior experience

Is “Run before you can walk” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Run before you can walk” 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 “Run before you can walk” effectively in context?

You can use "Run before you can walk" to caution someone against attempting something difficult or advanced before they have learned or mastered the basics. For example, if a friend wants to start a business without any prior knowledge or experience, you might say, 'Be careful not to run before you can walk. It's important to learn the fundamentals first.'

• 1. Learning a New Skill

  He tried to run before he could walk and ended up injuring himself.

• 2. Taking on a Challenging Project

  She attempted to run before she could walk by taking on a challenging project without prior experience.

• 3. Trying to Skip Steps

  It's important to run before you can walk when learning a new skill.

Similar phrases to “Run before you can walk”:

Jump the gun

To start or do something too soon, without waiting for the appropriate time

Example

He jumped the gun and started the project before receiving all the necessary information.

Put the cart before the horse

To do things in the wrong order or prioritize incorrectly

Example

She put the cart before the horse by buying furniture before finding a new apartment.

Get ahead of oneself

To plan or act too far in advance, without considering the present circumstances

Example

He got ahead of himself and started making travel arrangements before receiving confirmation of his vacation dates.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Run before you can walk” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Run before you can walk" is unknown.

Is “Run before you can walk” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Run before you can walk" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. It is often used to advise caution and emphasize the importance of building a strong foundation before attempting more advanced tasks.

What tone does “Run before you can walk” have?

"Run before you can walk" conveys a tone of caution and wisdom. It suggests that rushing into something without proper preparation or understanding can lead to negative consequences.

Can “Run before you can walk” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Run before you can walk" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that warns against taking on challenges prematurely. You can use it in conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in professional or educational contexts.

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, 'He tried to run before he could walk and ended up making mistakes.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Don't run before you can walk!' to advise caution.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• start from scratch
• learn to crawl before you walk
• take baby steps
• build a solid foundation
• master the basics

Antonyms

• hit the ground running
• dive right in
• take a leap of faith
• embrace challenges
• learn by doing