English.me

“The early bird catches the worm”: meaning, origin and examples

The early bird catches the worm

What it means

The phrase means that people who wake up early or start working on a task ahead of others are more likely to succeed or benefit.

Tone Encouraging

Where it comes from

The phrase is a traditional English proverb that emphasizes the advantages of proactivity and time management. It has been in use since at least the 17th century.

Examples

  • Sarah is always the first to arrive at the office; she believes in the saying ‘The early bird catches the worm.’
  • John’s habit of studying in the morning helps him keep ahead of his classmates, proving ‘The early bird catches the worm.’

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