Catch not at the shadow and lose the substance

Definition & Meaning of "catch not at the shadow and lose the substance"

catch not at the shadow and lose the substance

used to emphasize that one should not become distracted by superficial or insignificant details and lose sight of what is truly important or valuable

Proverb

What is the origin of the proverb "catch not at the shadow and lose the substance" and when to use it?

The origin of the proverb "catch not at the shadow and lose the substance" dates back to ancient wisdom and has been used in various cultures. It suggests that one should not waste time or effort pursuing things that are insignificant, as doing so can cause one to miss out on more meaningful or valuable opportunities. This saying serves as a reminder to prioritize what is truly important, rather than becoming distracted by distractions or false appearances.

Example

The athlete spent all his time on endorsements and sponsorships, neglecting his training and performance, losing his chance at winning the championship.