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Thomas · 07-03-2007, 03:50 PM

I am not sure how many of you understood that Elmeromero correctly pointed out that the expression is "Better safe than sorry", not "Better sure than sorry." Emilyb's post had very good equivalents in Spanish. The idea is that it's better to take some time and prepare for possible dangers/problems than it is to do nothing, hope for the best, and then -- when things go to hell -- be sorry that you had not done anything.

An example would be taking extra water in the car during a trip. You don't expect to need the water, but you take it. If there is no need for it, big deal. What have you lost? Five minutes? However, if there is a problem with the radiator, if you spill mustard on your shirt, if you need to clean the windshield and you are miles from the nearest gas station, you are going to be very happy that you have the extra water with you. Better safe than sorry.

07-03-2007, 03:50 PM	#16
Thomas Contributing User Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Santo Domingo de Heredia, Costa Rica Age: 65 Posts: 100 Rep Power: 254	Safe/Sure? I am not sure how many of you understood that Elmeromero correctly pointed out that the expression is "Better safe than sorry", not "Better sure than sorry." Emilyb's post had very good equivalents in Spanish. The idea is that it's better to take some time and prepare for possible dangers/problems than it is to do nothing, hope for the best, and then -- when things go to hell -- be sorry that you had not done anything. An example would be taking extra water in the car during a trip. You don't expect to need the water, but you take it. If there is no need for it, big deal. What have you lost? Five minutes? However, if there is a problem with the radiator, if you spill mustard on your shirt, if you need to clean the windshield and you are miles from the nearest gas station, you are going to be very happy that you have the extra water with you. Better safe than sorry.