a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush
Meaning: It is better to keep what you have than risk it for something more uncertain.
Language: English
Literally: (Already vivid in English)
Example: “I'll take the job offer now; a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.”
Category: Animals
Origin: From falconry and bird catching. Versions are found in medieval Latin and in English from the 15th century; John Heywood's collection (1546) gives a form of it.
Equivalents in other languages
- French: Un tiens vaut mieux que deux tu l'auras — literally: One here-you-are is worth more than two you-shall-haves
- French: Mieux vaut tenir que courir — literally: Better to hold than to run
More idioms — Animals
- hightail it — To leave in a great hurry.
- you could have knocked me down with a feather — I was extremely surprised.
- like a rat in a trap — Trapped with no way to escape.
- like the cat that got the cream — Very pleased with oneself.
- strong as an ox — Very strong.
- holy cow! — An exclamation of surprise.
More English idioms
- a Herculean task — An extremely difficult job requiring huge effort.
- on the sidelines — Not taking an active part; left out.
- a stab in the back — A betrayal by someone one trusted.
- the light at the end of the tunnel — A sign that a long, difficult period is ending.
- at full tilt — At full speed or with full force.
- my bad — My mistake; sorry.