What does “Well begun is half done.” mean?
"Well begun is half done" means that if we start something well, we are more likely to complete it successfully. It suggests that a good start is important for achieving our goals.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I always make sure to plan and prepare thoroughly before starting a project. Well begun is half done. It sets the foundation for success.
Example
They say that well begun is half done. That's why I always start my day with a productive morning routine.
Example
I believe that well begun is half done. That's why I always start my essays with a strong introduction
Is “Well begun is half done.” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Well begun is half done.” 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 “Well begun is half done.” effectively in context?
You can use "Well begun is half done." to emphasize the importance of starting a task or project on the right foot. It encourages others to focus on the beginning stages and put in the effort to ensure a successful outcome. Here are three distinct situations where you can use this proverb:
- 1Academic
Before an exam, you might remind your friend that well begun is half done. Encourage them to start studying early and establish a solid foundation of knowledge.
- 2Work
When starting a new project at work, you can remind your team that well begun is half done. Emphasize the importance of thorough planning and preparation to set the stage for success.
- 3Personal Goals
If someone is trying to develop a new habit or achieve a personal goal, you can motivate them by saying that well begun is half done. Encourage them to start strong and build momentum.
Similar phrases to “Well begun is half done.”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Well begun is half done.” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Well begun is half done." can be traced back to ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle. In his work 'Nicomachean Ethics,' he wrote, 'Well begun is half done.' The idea behind the proverb is that if we start something well, we are more likely to complete it successfully. It suggests that a good start is important for achieving our goals.
Is “Well begun is half done.” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Well begun is half done." is a well-known and frequently used proverb in everyday conversation. It is often used to highlight the significance of starting a task or project effectively.
What tone does “Well begun is half done.” have?
"Well begun is half done." conveys a tone of encouragement and motivation. It is used to inspire others to focus on the beginning stages and put in the necessary effort to ensure success.
Can “Well begun is half done.” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Well begun is half done." can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile proverb that emphasizes the importance of starting well to achieve desired outcomes. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
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, 'Remember, "well begun is half done."' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the proverb even if used alone, like saying '"Well begun is half done."' to imply the importance of starting well.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- a good start is half the battle
- first impressions matter
- begin as you mean to go on
- start off on the right foot
- lay the groundwork
Antonyms
- better late than never
- it's not how you start, but how you finish
- catch up later
- recover from a bad start
- turn things around
