Don't put all your eggs in one basket

You are wondering about the meaning of the phrase Don't put all your eggs in one basket, maybe you heard it in a TV show, movie or theater play. Although this idiom is not used very often, it enriches your capacity of expression and strengthens communication. In which case is the expression Don't put all your eggs in one basket used and what is its meaning?

Meaning of "Don't put all your eggs in one basket"

Meaning

The phrase, “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket” is a phrase known to many English speakers around the world and is used as a warning against putting too much trust or effort into a single endeavor. In other words, it could be summarized as “do not risk too much in one venture”. This phrase is intended to make one think twice before taking a chance and putting all their resources into a single endeavor.

Etymology

The origin of the phrase dates back to William Cobbett’s book “Rural Rides,” published in 1830. It is likely that the phrase was passed down through generations given its ubiquity in the English language. It is also possible that the phrase originated in the Latin phrase “frangere nolite omnia ovum in unum cistam” which translates to “do not break all the eggs into one basket”. Though the precise origin is not known, these two potential etymologies are widely accepted.

Usage

The phrase “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket” is most commonly used to advise against overly risky behavior. This phrase is commonly seen in situations such as investing money, applying to jobs, and personal relationships. In addition to its implications of risk, this phrase serves as a reminder to be judicious with one’s resources, especially when it comes to future prospects. The phrase is also occasionally used in its more literal sense, often in the context of transporting eggs.

Example Sentences

• “I was about to put all my savings into a risky investment, but I remember my parents’ advice to not put all my eggs in one basket.”
• “My mother always told me that I should diversify my portfolio and not put all my eggs in one basket.”
• “We need to be careful about the eggs; don’t put all of them in one basket.”

Beyond the Literal: Figurative Language in Idioms

Idioms often use figurative language to convey a message that is not meant to be taken literally. For instance, the idiom "bite the bullet" means to endure a painful or difficult situation without complaint, while "hold your horses" means to be patient and wait. Other idioms, like "kick the bucket" or "pop your clogs," use euphemisms to talk about death.