Definition & Meaning of "Run before can walk"

run before sb can walk

/ɹˈʌn bɪfˌɔː ˌɛsbˈiː kan kʊd wˈɔːk/

/ɹˈʌn bɪfˌoːɹ ˌɛsbˈiː kæn kʊd wˈɔːk/

to run before sb can walk

PHRASE

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.