Explaining "Do not put all your eggs in one basket"

Reviewed and edited by

Anwar Kareem 30/09/2024, 05:24

English.me team member

What does it mean?

The phrase means that one should not concentrate all resources or efforts into a single possibility or risk, as it may lead to total loss if that option fails.

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Origin

The phrase is thought to originate from the idea that if you carry all your eggs in one basket and drop it, you risk breaking all the eggs. It has been in use in English since the 17th century.

Examples of usage

When investing your money, it's wise to diversify rather than putting all your eggs in one basket.
She decided to apply to several colleges, not wanting to put all her eggs in one basket.