🐦 What Does “A Bird in the Hand is Worth Two in the Bush” Mean?

The idiom "a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush" means it's better to have a sure thing than to risk it for more and end up with nothing. It’s a reminder to value what you already have rather than chasing uncertain opportunities.

🧠 Synonyms & Similar Expressions

Better safe than sorry
Don’t count your chickens before they hatch
A sure thing is better than a maybe
Hold onto what you’ve got
Risk versus reward

🌍 Origin of the Idiom

The phrase dates back to the 14th century and likely originated from medieval falconry. A bird in the hand (already caught) was of more value to the hunter than two in the bush (still at large and harder to catch). The first recorded use of this exact phrase in English appeared in John Capgrave's "The Life of St. Katharine of Alexandria" in the 15th century.

🗣️ How Is It Used in Context?

This idiom is commonly used when someone is debating between sticking with a guaranteed result or taking a chance for a potentially better one — with the risk of ending up with nothing.

It’s often used in business, investments, personal decisions, and life advice.

✍️ 5 Sample Sentences

I was offered a stable job, even though it pays less. Well, a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.
She wanted to invest in a startup instead of saving. I reminded her that a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.
He decided to accept the offer instead of waiting for a better one—better a bird in the hand than two in the bush.
Don’t give up what you have now for a maybe in the future. A bird in the hand, remember?
They were tempted to upgrade their apartment but chose to stay put—figuring a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.

💡 Final Thoughts

This timeless idiom offers a simple but powerful piece of wisdom: Appreciate certainty over the temptation of uncertain gains. It's not about avoiding risk entirely, but about recognizing the value of what you already possess.