What is the meaning of the phrase ‘Better safe than sorry’?
It is better and wiser to be cautious and careful rather not be so and feel regretful when the consequences arise. It’s best to prevent unwanted outcomes.
What is the origin of the phrase ‘Better safe than sorry’?
The origin of the phrase “better safe than sorry” is relatively modern, but its roots in cautionary advice stretch further back. The earliest recorded instance of the phrase in print is attributed to Irish novelist Samuel Lover, who used it in his novel Rory O’More, published in 1837.
Lover’s use of the phrase helped popularize it in English-speaking culture. The phrase likely became more ingrained in public consciousness during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as it continued to appear in literature and in everyday conversation, including in political discourse, and in legal and business settings.
Today, there are several acceptable variations of the phrase such as ‘It’s better to be safe than sorry’, ‘Better/best to be on the safe side’, and It’s better to err on the side of caution‘. You could also say ‘be sensible’ or ‘best to be cautious’. These phrases are most frequently used when discussing matters of safety precautions and the prevention of accidents.
What are some notable uses of the phrase ‘Better safe than sorry’?
During the Cuban Missile Crisis and other Cold War events, President John F. Kennedy’s administration advocated a stance of caution and prudence to avoid the threat of nuclear war. The phrase “better safe than sorry” became a symbolic sentiment of the era, urging countries to take preventive actions to avoid catastrophe.
Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, leaders, public health officials, and the media used phrases like “better safe than sorry” to justify strict safety measures such as lockdowns, mask mandates, and social distancing, urging people to err on the side of caution to prevent further spread of the virus.
