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to put the cart before the horse
01
to not do things in order
![to [put] the cart before the horse definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/46328/original/?type=jpeg "to [put] the cart before the horse definition and meaning")
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "put the cart before the horse" and when to use it?
The idiom "put the cart before the horse" warns against doing things in the wrong order, emphasizing the importance of proper sequencing and planning. It originates from the literal scenario of attaching a cart (which follows) in front of a horse (which leads). This idiom is used to caution against hasty or illogical actions where the logical order is reversed, leading to inefficiency or confusion.
Examples
Are n't you putting the cart before the horse by deciding what to wear for the wedding before you've even been invited to it?
You ca n't start building a house without architectural plans; that's like putting the cart before the horse.
