What does “A bad beginning makes a bad ending.” mean?
"A bad beginning makes a bad ending" means that it is better to be content with what one has than to risk losing it by trying to attain something more. This proverb suggests that it is better to have something certain and tangible, rather than something that is uncertain and may not be achieved.
What context can I use the in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
Example
He was warned that a bad beginning makes a bad ending. However, he still decided to take the risk and ended up losing everything.
He was warned that a bad beginning makes a bad ending. However, he still decided to take the risk and ended up losing everything.
Example
She was satisfied with her current job and didn't want to take any risks. She believed that a bad beginning makes a bad ending.
She was satisfied with her current job and didn't want to take any risks. She believed that a bad beginning makes a bad ending.
Example
They were tempted to invest all their savings in a risky business venture. But they remembered the saying that a bad beginning makes a bad ending and decided against it
They were tempted to invest all their savings in a risky business venture. But they remembered the saying that a bad beginning makes a bad ending and decided against it
Is “A bad beginning makes a bad ending.” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“A bad beginning makes a bad ending.” 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 “A bad beginning makes a bad ending.” effectively in context?
You can use "A bad beginning makes a bad ending" to caution someone against taking unnecessary risks or pursuing uncertain opportunities. It emphasizes the importance of being content with what one has rather than risking it for something that may not be achieved. For example, if a friend is considering quitting their stable job to start a risky business, you might say, 'Remember, a bad beginning makes a bad ending. It's better to be content with what you have than to risk losing everything.'
- 1Career
He was warned that a bad beginning makes a bad ending. However, he still decided to take the risk and ended up losing everything.
He was warned that a bad beginning makes a bad ending. However, he still decided to take the risk and ended up losing everything.
- 2Contentment
She was satisfied with her current job and didn't want to take any risks. She believed that a bad beginning makes a bad ending.
She was satisfied with her current job and didn't want to take any risks. She believed that a bad beginning makes a bad ending.
- 3Financial Decisions
They were tempted to invest all their savings in a risky business venture. But they remembered the saying that a bad beginning makes a bad ending and decided against it.
They were tempted to invest all their savings in a risky business venture. But they remembered the saying that a bad beginning makes a bad ending and decided against it.
Similar phrases to “A bad beginning makes a bad ending.”:
It is better to hold onto something certain and tangible than to risk it for something uncertain and potentially greater
Example
He decided to keep his current job instead of pursuing a higher-paying opportunity. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.
He decided to keep his current job instead of pursuing a higher-paying opportunity. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “A bad beginning makes a bad ending.” come from?
The origin of the phrase "A bad beginning makes a bad ending" is unknown.
Is “A bad beginning makes a bad ending.” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "A bad beginning makes a bad ending" is a well-known proverb that is commonly used in everyday conversation. People often use it to caution others against taking unnecessary risks or pursuing uncertain opportunities.
What tone does “A bad beginning makes a bad ending.” have?
"A bad beginning makes a bad ending" conveys a tone of caution and wisdom. It is often used to advise against impulsive actions and encourage contentment with what one already has.
Can “A bad beginning makes a bad ending.” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "A bad beginning makes a bad ending" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a widely recognized proverb that conveys the idea of being cautious and content. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or written communication.
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 ignored the warning and took the risk, but as they say, a bad beginning makes a bad ending.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the proverb even if used alone, like saying 'Remember, "a bad beginning makes a bad ending"!' to caution someone against a risky decision.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- haste makes waste
- slow and steady wins the race
- don't bite off more than you can chew
- patience is a virtue
- contentment is the greatest wealth
Antonyms
- nothing ventured, nothing gained
- seize the day
- fortune favors the bold
- take a leap of faith
- risk it all
