Watch the pennies and the pounds take care of themselves

Posted by Abe on May 10, 2005

In Reply to: Watch the pennies and the pounds take care of themselves posted by James Briggs on May 10, 2005

: : "Watch the pennies and the pounds take care of themselves". Could you explain the meaning?

: If you're careful over the small things in life, then the big things will come to succesful outcomes on their own. Sadly, not quite true, but a reasonable guide! The 'pounds' here are, of course 'pounds stirling' and not 'pounds weight'.

There is also an old expression "Don't be penny wise and pound foolish." which seems on first glance to read somewhat the opposite. I have often wondered if anyone has collected a list of these sayings that seem to be pairs of conflicting wisdom.

• Conflicting Wisdom. Bruce Kahl 10/May/05
  • Conflicting Wisdom. Bruce Taylor 11/May/05