Look before you leap
Meaning
Consider the potential consequences carefully before taking action or making a significant decision.
Origin
The wisdom of "look before you leap" is as ancient as cautionary tales themselves, with similar sentiments found in the fables of Aesop, where characters often learned bitter lessons from hasty actions. While the precise phrasing gained widespread popularity through its inclusion in John Heywood's influential 1546 collection of English proverbs, the core message of prudence had already permeated earlier English literature, echoing a timeless human need for foresight. The vivid imagery of pausing at the edge of a chasm or stream, assessing the depth and obstacles before making a jump, instantly conveys the enduring counsel to weigh consequences before diving headfirst into any venture.
Examples
- Before you quit your stable job to start a risky new business, you should really look before you leap and develop a solid financial plan.
- My grandmother always told me to look before I leap, especially when making promises I might not be able to keep.