ne pas compter ses poules avant qu'elles soient écloses

/nə pa kɔ̃te se pul avɑ̃ k‿ɛl swaɛt eklɔz/

proverb★Intermediate◆proverb

◆ What It Really Means

A warning against premature optimism or overconfidence, advising caution in making plans based on uncertain future success.

¶ Literal Meaning

Do not count your hens before they have hatched.

Literal Breakdown

ne pas compterdo not count+ses poulesyour hens+avant qu'elles soient éclosesbefore they have hatched

◇ Mental Image

The image of counting hens before they have hatched symbolizes making assumptions about future success before it is certain.

◈ When to Use

A friend is planning a big celebration for a job promotion they haven't been offered yet. You might say, 'Ne pas compter ses poules avant qu'elles soient écloses!' to caution them against assuming the promotion is guaranteed.

◉ Cultural Note

This proverb is widely used in French culture to advise against overconfidence and to encourage a more cautious approach to planning for the future.

informal

To avoid making plans or assumptions about future success before it is certain, as doing so may lead to disappointment or failure.

Il a déjà commencé à dépenser l'argent qu'il n'a pas encore gagné. Il ne faut pas compter ses poules avant qu'elles soient écloses!

He's already started spending money he hasn't earned yet. Don't count your chickens before they hatch!

💡

This proverb warns against premature optimism or overconfidence.

Synonyms

Related Phrases

ne pas vendre la peau de l'ours avant de l'avoir tuéproverb

don't sell the bear's skin before you've killed it

💡Pro Tip

Usage Context

This proverb is often used in situations where someone is being overly optimistic or making plans based on uncertain future events.

📖Word Origin

This proverb originates from the idea that one should not assume the success of hatching chickens before the eggs have actually hatched, as there is always a risk of failure.

📝Usage Notes

This expression is commonly used to advise caution against overconfidence or making plans based on uncertain outcomes.

Dictionnaire Français-Anglais