English Explanatory Dictionary

a stitch in time saves nine

English dictionary entry

Meanings

proverb
  1. A little effort expended sooner to fix a small problem prevents it from becoming a larger problem requiring more effort to fix later.

Word forms

a stitch in time saves nine

Etymology

From the practice of mending a small tear in cloth when first noticed ("in time"), before it becomes a larger one requiring more stitches.

Related words

never put off until tomorrow what you can do today there's no time like the present prevention is better than cure an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure
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