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better safe than sorry
better to be safe than sorry
better safe than sorry
01
used to suggest that it is preferable to take precautions and be cautious in order to avoid problems or regret later on
Proverb
What is the origin of the proverb "better safe than sorry" and when to use it?
The origin of the proverb "better safe than sorry" is believed to come from 18th-century English, though its exact source is unclear. This saying emphasizes that it is wiser to be cautious, even if it seems unnecessary at the time, rather than taking risks that could lead to more serious consequences. It serves as a reminder that avoiding harm through careful actions is often better than dealing with the aftermath of mistakes or oversights.
Examples
Better safe than sorry, so I wore a helmet while biking, even though I wasn’t going fast.
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