English Idioms

Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it

Meaning

The idiom "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" is a proverb that means not to make changes or improvements to something that is already working well or functioning properly. It suggests that there is no need to tinker with what is already successful in order to avoid disrupting the existing equilibrium or upsetting the applecart.

Usage

  • If you're satisfied with your current job, don't go looking for another one - it ain't broke, don't fix it.
  • The new software update has caused a lot of bugs and glitches, so why bother if it ain't broke?
  • My husband insists on trying out new recipes every time he cooks dinner, but I think he should stick with what works - it ain't broke, don't fix it.
  • The company has been making a lot of changes lately, but I don't see the point if things were already running smoothly - it ain't broke, don't fix it.
  • If you don't have any problems with your current car, why switch to a new one - it ain't broke, don't fix it.

Roots and History

The origin of the phrase "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" is not entirely clear, but it has been in use since at least the 19th century. It was first recorded in a collection of proverbs by Samuel Johnson in his book "A Dictionary of English Proverbs" in 1756. The phrase gained popularity in the United States during the early 20th century and has since become a common expression used in both formal and informal language. Over time, the idiom has evolved to encompass not just physical objects but also systems or processes that are functioning well.

Synonyms in English

  • Leave well enough alone.
  • Don't rock the boat.
  • Stick with what works.
  • Don't mess with success.
  • If it ain't broke, don't make it worse.

Synonyms in other languages

  • French - Pas besoin de faire grandir ce qui déjà à bien (Translation: There is no need to add anything to what is already growing well)
  • German - Einmal über alles aufgeht, das ist gebrochen (Translation: Once something is broken, it's always broken)
  • Russian - Если не сломано, то не ремонтируем (Translation: If it isn't broken, we won't repair it)
  • Italian - Non ci sarà da fissare se non c'è nulla rotta (Translation: There is no need to fix anything if it's not broken)
  • Spanish - Si no está roto, no lo arreglamos (Translation: If it isn't broken, we won't fix it)

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