count your chickens before they hatch
Meaning
Don’t assume you’ll succeed or get something before it actually happens; plans based on uncertain outcomes can disappoint.
Origin
From an old proverb/fable (often linked to Aesop and later popularized in English collections): a person imagines profits from eggs/chickens, but the eggs are lost, showing the risk of premature optimism.
Notes
Used as advice/warning against premature optimism or making plans based on uncertain outcomes. Can sound mildly admonishing, so soften it if needed.
Examples
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Don’t count your chickens before they hatch—you haven’t received the job offer yet.
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She was already planning a vacation with the bonus, but I warned her not to count her chickens before they hatch.
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We might win the contract, but let’s not count our chickens before they hatch until the client signs.
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He started spending his expected refund, counting his chickens before they hatch.
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I know the numbers look good, but don’t count your chickens before they hatch; anything can change before launch.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Fixed proverb usually as an imperative: “Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.” Often shortened to “Don’t count your chickens.” Pronouns can vary (“your/his/her”), but wording is mostly set.
Synonyms
- don’t get ahead of yourself
- don’t bank on it
- don’t assume too much
- don’t count on it
Antonyms
- take it as it comes
- cross that bridge when you come to it