Once well done is twice done.

Meaning: Completing work carefully the first time eliminates the need for costly, time-consuming corrections.

Origin: Recorded in A Dictionary of English Proverbs and Proverbial Phrases, an undated collection published in London by Whittaker & Co. around 1880 and credited to Thomas Preston. Its earlier history hasn't been traced.

More proverbs about Perseverance

From our untranslatable words

  • Abbiocco — The heavy, irresistible drowsiness that comes after a large meal — the post-lunch stupor…
  • Culaccino — The ring or stain left on a surface by a wet or cold glass — that small, damp circle that…
  • Gattara — A woman — often elderly — who dedicates herself to feeding and caring for stray cats in h…

Browse all untranslatable words →

← Back to Proverbs