Better the devil you know

Meaning

Prefer a familiar problem to an unknown one.

Usage

Used when choosing the lesser of evils.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Old proverb cautioning against change.

Found in English texts dating back to the 17th century.