don't count your chickens before they hatch
Meaning
Don’t assume a good result or make plans based on it before it’s certain; avoid acting as if success is guaranteed.
Origin
From farming: counting eggs or future chicks before they hatch is risky because many may not survive. Recorded in English as a proverb by at least the 16th century.
Notes
Advising caution; it implies someone is being prematurely optimistic. Common in speech and writing; can sound mildly critical or patronizing if directed at someone bluntly.
Examples
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I know the interview went well, but don't count your chickens before they hatch until you get the offer in writing.
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She's already planning how to spend her bonus, but I told her not to count her chickens before they hatch.
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We might win the contract, but don't count your chickens before they hatch—there's still one more round of negotiations.
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He started bragging about passing the exam before seeing his score, and his teacher reminded him not to count his chickens before they hatch.
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It’s great that investors are interested, but don't count your chickens before they hatch until the funding is secured.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used as an imperative/proverb: “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 largely fixed.
Synonyms
- don't put the cart before the horse
- don't get ahead of yourself
- don't assume success
- wait and see
Antonyms
- count on it
- bank on it
- rest assured