“A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush” is an idiom in the English language that people use in everyday conversation. You have likely used this expression yourself at some point, but many people don’t know its true meaning. Let’s understand the actual meaning of this idiom, explore when and how it originated, and see some real-life examples sentences that will help you use this expression with ease.
Meaning of the Idiom
The idiom “a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush” expresses the idea that it’s more valuable to have a small but certain advantage than to risk losing it for a potentially greater but uncertain gain. This proverb emphasizes the importance of appreciating what one already possesses rather than pursuing elusive opportunities.
Origin of the Idiom
This idiom has its roots in medieval falconry, where having a bird (prey) in hand was a tangible and guaranteed possession, while the possibility of capturing two birds in the bush was uncertain. The expression became popular in English during the 15th century, highlighting the practical wisdom of choosing certainty over potential gain.
Examples Sentences
1. Knowing he had a stable job, Jack decided not to leave for a higher-paying position in another city, understanding that “a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.”
2. Sarah chose to invest in conservative stocks with consistent returns, following the principle that “a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush” rather than risking it in volatile markets.
3. Opting for a known and reliable supplier over a cheaper but untested option, the company decided that reliability today is truly “a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.”
4. Tim resisted the temptation to sell his current house for a potential higher profit in the future, understanding the wisdom that “a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.”
5. Mary accepted a job offer with a steady income and benefits instead of waiting for a dream job that might never materialize, believing that “a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.”
6. The team decided to pursue a project with a guaranteed client, acknowledging that “a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush” when considering uncertain projects.
7. Rather than pursuing risky ventures, the entrepreneur decided to expand the existing successful product line, recognizing that “a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.”
8. Susan chose a reliable and tested software solution over a new but unproven one, adhering to the belief that “a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.”
9. George resisted quitting his job to start a business without a concrete plan, realizing that “a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.”
10. Understanding the risks involved, the investor chose to hold onto dividend-paying stocks, following the principle that “a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.”
Using ‘A Bird in the Hand is Worth Two in the Bush’ in Daily Conversation
Now that you know the meaning and origin of the idiom “A bird in hand is worth two in the bush,” let’s see how you can use it in a real-world conversation.
Conversation 1:
Emily and Jake are chatting over coffee about a decision Jake is facing regarding his car sale.
Emily: “Hey Jake, I heard you’re thinking about selling your car. What’s the plan?”
Jake: “Yeah, I found a buyer who’s offering a good price, but I’m tempted to hold out for a better offer. Maybe I can get a few hundred dollars more if I wait a bit.”
Emily: “True, but remember, a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. You’ve got a sure deal right now—if you wait, there’s a chance you might not find another buyer or end up with a lower offer.”
Jake: “You’re right. I guess I shouldn’t risk losing this sale for a slight chance of more money. I think I’ll go ahead and accept the offer.”
Conversation 2:
Samantha and Mark are catching up at a local café.
Samantha: “So, Mark, I heard you’re thinking about moving to a new city for a job opportunity?”
Mark: “Yeah, I’ve been considering it, but I’m worried about leaving my current job. They’ve treated me well here, and I’m not sure the new position will be as good.”
Samantha: “I get that. It’s always tempting to chase something better, but remember, a bird in hand is worth two in the bush. You have a stable job right now.”
Mark: “That’s true. I really do like my current team and the work-life balance. Maybe I should think twice before making a rash decision.”
Samantha: “Exactly! Sometimes it’s smarter to appreciate what you already have rather than gamble on the unknown.”
Similar Idioms
- Better Safe Than Sorry
Meaning: This idiom means it’s wiser to avoid risks when you already have something valuable, echoing the idea of valuing what’s certain over potential but uncertain gains.
Example: She double-checked all her documents before the interview; after all, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
2. Don’t Count Your Chickens Before They Hatch
Meaning: This phrase suggests not assuming success or gains before they are certain, reinforcing the idea of appreciating what’s actually secured.
Example: She was planning how to spend the bonus before it was approved, but I reminded her not to count her chickens before they hatch.
Idioms Starting From Letter A
Each and every letter of the English alphabet has hundreds of idioms. As in this post, we are talking about the idiom beginning with the letter A. There are many other idioms that also start with the ‘A’, which can be useful to you. We have gathered all the A-starting idiomatic expressions on a single page to make it easy for you to find the best and most useful idioms starting with the letter A.
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