THE IDIOM COLLECTION LEARN & PRACTISE
Better safe than sorry
Understand the meaning. See it in context. Make it yours.
01 / UNDERSTAND
Meaning in plain English
It is better to take a precaution than to risk a problem you may regret.
02 / SEE IT IN CONTEXT
The expression in a sentence
- I saved a second copy of the presentation—better safe than sorry.
03 / CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING
Quick idiom quiz
Try the question without looking back, then write a sentence of your own. You can retry as often as you like.
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Can you recall the expression?
Complete the example using the expression from this lesson.
I saved a second copy of the presentation—________.
Show the answer
Better safe than sorry — It is better to take a precaution than to risk a problem you may regret.
Try your own sentence (optional)
Make it yours
Write one sentence using “Better safe than sorry” about your own life.
Check your sentence
Does your sentence match this meaning?
It is better to take a precaution than to risk a problem you may regret.
Compare: I saved a second copy of the presentation—better safe than sorry.
Check the spelling and how the expression fits the sentence. Your example can be different.
Self-review only. Your sentence is not automatically marked, saved or submitted.
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More ways to understand and use it
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When to use it
Use this saying when explaining a careful choice, such as checking a booking or carrying a spare. Its tone is conversational.
More examples in context
- Take the earlier train; better safe than sorry if there is a delay.
- We checked the address again because it is better safe than sorry.
Usage note
The complete version is “It is better to be safe than sorry.” The short form is common as a comment after describing a precaution.
A short conversation
A: Why did you bring an extra charging cable?
B: Better safe than sorry. Mine stopped working once before a meeting.
A: Good idea.
One more practice question
Which action illustrates “Better safe than sorry”?
A. Checking the submission requirements before sending your application.
B. Ignoring the requirements and hoping everything will be accepted.
Check your answer
A. Checking is a precaution that can prevent a regrettable mistake.
Related lessons
Meaning and usage checked against Cambridge Dictionary. Explanations, examples and conversation are original.