Don't cross a bridge until you come to it.
Don't cross a bridge until you come to it.
Meaning in plain English
The saying delays crossing a bridge until reaching it. As an analogy, do not settle a future problem before it becomes the relevant decision.
Example
Someone notes a future decision and prepares relevant information without trying to resolve every detail immediately.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The sequence of travel separates anticipation from the moment of action. A qualified application recognises when worry is premature while still allowing useful preparation. The phrase does not make all planning needless or provide instructions for crossing a real bridge.
When to use it
Use it to discuss timing of decisions alongside appropriate preparation.
Keep in mind
Future planning is not automatically pointless, and no physical crossing guidance is given.
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 581; PDF page 84
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