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Region: General | Usage example: Lock everything before leaving; better safe than sorry

Better safe than sorry

Meaning

It is wiser to take precautions than to risk regret

Usage

Used to justify taking cautious actions

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Adage emphasizing prudence over risk

Passed down through parenting and management advice

Related Idioms

Better late than never

Doing something after the ideal time is still better than failing to do it at all.

Two heads are better than one

Collaboration produces better results than solo action.

Better than sex

Exceptionally pleasurable.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.