run before sb can walk

Definition & Meaning of "[run] before {sb} (can|could) walk"

to run before sb can walk

to make an attempt to do something difficult without having the requirements or means to do so

to [run] before {sb} (can|could) walk definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "run before someone can walk" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "run before someone can walk" is not very well documented, but it is used to caution against trying to do something beyond one's current level of skill or understanding. This phrase implies that it is important to learn and practice the fundamentals before attempting more advanced tasks.

Example

They tried to run before they could walk.

The important thing about cooking is not to try and run before you can walk.

She wanted to tackle the most challenging tasks at work right away, but her manager advised her not to run before she can walk and focus on learning the basics first.