don't count your chickens
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Meaning · English
Ellipsis of don't count your chickens before they're hatched.
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
“We’ve started now,” the hot-heads crowed. “’Twon’t be long ’fore we’ve got Nappy on the run from end to end of the Continent.” / “Don’t count your chickens,” the wise retorted. “’Tis mightily encouraging, but the greatest military power on earth ain’t likely to throw in his hand because an odd batt
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “don't count your chickens” mean?
Ellipsis of don't count your chickens before they're hatched.
Is “don't count your chickens” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.