English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Count chicken
Meaning
The idiom "count chickens" means to rely too heavily on something that may not happen or to make plans based on uncertain circumstances. It is often used to caution someone against making decisions without considering all possible outcomes and the potential risks involved.
Usage
- I always like to count my chickens before they hatch, so I can make sure I have enough money saved up for my dream vacation.
- Don't count your chickens before they hatch, because sometimes things don't go as planned and you may end up with nothing.
- It's always wise to count your chickens before making any big decisions that could affect your financial stability.
- When you count your chickens before they hatch, you are essentially putting all your eggs in one basket.
- The company's revenue projections seem optimistic, but I prefer to count my chickens when they actually arrive.
Roots and History
The origin of the idiom is uncertain, but it has been in use since at least the 16th century. One theory suggests that it comes from the practice of counting the number of chickens you have before they start laying eggs, which can be an unreliable indicator of their fertility. Another theory suggests that it comes from the practice of counting the number of potential customers or clients for a business before actually making any sales. Over time, the meaning and usage of the idiom have evolved to reflect changes in language and culture. Today, it is commonly used in both informal and formal contexts and has become a widely recognized expression in English.
Synonyms in English
- Make assumptions
- Put all your eggs in one basket
- Rely too heavily on something uncertain
- Take chances based on unreliable information
- Act impulsively without considering all possible outcomes
Synonyms in other languages
- 在猪肉里计算 (Japanese) - This idiom means to overestimate one's ability or rely too heavily on something uncertain.
- 扮演一只鸡兒角色 (Chinese) - This idiom means to act as a chicken, which is a metaphor for someone who is cowardly or hesitant in the face of danger.
- 计算自己不会受到这种风险的影响 (Spanish) - This idiom means to count on not being affected by this risk, which suggests that someone is underestimating the potential consequences of their actions.
- 预期有什么可能发生 (German) - This idiom means to expect something to happen, which can be seen as a form of counting your chickens before they hatch.
- 在苹果树上计算的蛙 (Portuguese) - This idiom means to overestimate one's ability or rely too heavily on something uncertain, similar to the English idiom "counting chickens."