count your chickens
Meaning
To assume success or benefits before they’re certain; to be overconfident about an outcome.
Origin
From the proverb “Don’t count your chickens before they hatch,” recorded in English from the 16th century and traced to older fables (often linked to Aesop/La Fontaine). The metaphor warns that eggs may not hatch, so expected gains aren’t guaranteed.
Notes
Often used as a warning (“Don’t count your chickens…”). It implies a caution against premature optimism or assuming a deal is done.
Examples
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I wouldn’t count your chickens just yet; the client still has to approve the contract.
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She was counting her chickens by planning a vacation before she’d even gotten the job offer.
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Don’t count your chickens—there’s still a chance the deal could fall through.
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He started spending the bonus in his head, but his manager warned him not to count his chickens.
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We’re ahead in the polls, but it’s too early to count our chickens before election day.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Commonly appears as the imperative “Don’t count your chickens (before they hatch).” Also used as “He’s counting his chickens.” ‘Chickens’ is typically plural; the full proverb is more common than the shortened form.
Synonyms
- jump the gun
- get ahead of yourself
- assume the best too soon
Antonyms
- wait and see
- take it one step at a time