Do not praise the beginning until you see the end.
Do not praise the beginning until you see the end.
Meaning in plain English
The saying postpones praise for a beginning until its ending is known. It warns against treating a promising start as proof of a successful whole.
Example
A reviewer praises a project’s promising opening while reserving judgment on whether the completed work fulfils it.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
Beginning and end contrast early appearance with a completed result. A qualified interpretation can keep an overall verdict provisional without refusing encouragement for work already done well. The ending may reveal relevant consequences, but it is not the only possible basis for appreciating effort or conduct.
When to use it
Use it to distinguish provisional encouragement from a final assessment.
Keep in mind
Early merit can be recognised, and a final result does not alone determine the worth of all preceding work.
Edsverb editorial interpretation · agent reviewed · 2026-10-05. This explains the saying; it does not establish its historical origin.
- Source
- Contributor-provided proverb reference
Supplied reference A; unit 807; PDF page 114
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