English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Fortune favours the bold
Meaning
The idiom "fortune favors the bold" is a proverb that means good luck or success tends to come to those who are confident and courageous. The phrase implies that those who take risks and are not afraid of failure are more likely to achieve their goals than those who are hesitant or lacking in confidence.
Usage
- "The CEO's decision to launch a new product line despite the economic downturn paid off - fortune definitely favors the bold."
- "Samantha's courage to apply for the job she didn't think she was qualified for landed her the position - fortune favors the bold."
- "Despite the odds, the team won the championship thanks to their bold strategy - fortune favors the bold."
- "Even though we faced many challenges along the way, our team's determination and courage helped us achieve success - fortune favors the bold."
- "Taking risks can be scary, but sometimes it's necessary to reach your goals - fortune favors the bold."
Roots and History
The origin of this idiom is unclear, but it has been in use since at least the 17th century. One possible source is a biblical verse from Proverbs that reads, "Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans." This verse suggests that good outcomes come to those who trust in God's guidance, even when they take risks. Over time, the idiom has taken on a more secular connotation, emphasizing the importance of confidence and courage in achieving success. It has also been adapted into various forms, such as "Fortune favors the brave" or "Luck favors the bold."
Synonyms in English
- "Success comes to those who are confident"
- "Good luck goes to those who take risks"
- "Courage pays off"
- "It's better to be lucky than safe"
- "Fortune favors the brave and the bold"
Synonyms in other languages
- French: "La fortune avant les fous" (Luck before the fools)
- Italian: "La fortuna favora i coraggiosi" (Fortune favors the courageous)
- Spanish: "La suerte favorece a los valientes" (Luck favors the brave)
- German: "Die Glück kommt den Mutigen zu" (Luck comes to the bold)
- Russian: "Фортуна обидает неудачниками" (Fortune punishes those who fail)