Such a beginning, such an end.
Meaning: Initial choices and conditions fundamentally shape ultimate outcomes; how things start determines how they finish.
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
- Good to begin well; better to end well. — Sustained effort matters more than initial enthusiasm; completion demonstrates true commi…
- Bend the twig while it is young. — Early correction of a child's character or habits proves far more effective than attempti…
- Do as you are bidden and you'll never be to blame. — Obedience absolves you from responsibility when following orders, shielding you from crit…
- If you cannot bite, never show your teeth. — Avoid displaying aggression or capability you lack; empty threats invite challenge and ri…
- He that is born to be hanged shall never be drowned. — Destiny determines how we meet our end; those fated for one doom escape all others.
- Burn not your candle at both ends at once. — Depleting your resources simultaneously from opposite directions ensures swift exhaustion…
From our untranslatable words
- Tartle — That panicky pause when you go to introduce someone and realize you've forgotten their na…
- Tampo — Pulling back your warmth and affection when you've been hurt — going quiet and distant, h…
- Shemomechama — Eating well past fullness simply because the food is too delicious to stop.