don't count your chickens before they hatch
don't count your chickens before they hatch
Meaning
- do not count on something that has not yet happened
- don't make plans based on a good thing happening before it has actually happened
- don't expect all your hopes to come true
- don't base your plan on a future event happening
- don't assume to have everything you want until you have them
Example Sentences
- Before committing to make the payment, wait till you receive the money from the bank. Don't count your chickens before they hatch.
- Though he was leading the race, he had started celebrating even before the finish line, and in the process lost his lead. He had counted his chickens before they hatched.
- You may get the job, but don't count your chickens before they hatch; wait till you get the offer letter before you throw the party.
- Why not wait till you get the confirmation? Aren't you counting your chickens before they have hatched?
Origin
This is a very old phrase and is believed to have existed in many forms and in different cultures. It is also seen in a tale in the Aesop's fables, which originated in the 600 – 550 BC.
See also: count chicken