First think, then act.
First think, then act.
Meaning in plain English
The instruction puts thinking before action. It asks a decision to be considered before its consequences are set in motion.
Example
A team checks what a proposed change affects before carrying it out.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
First and then give the two activities an order, not a measured duration. A useful application can check purpose and foreseeable consequences without demanding endless deliberation. Urgent situations may require a quick assessment, and thought alone does not guarantee a sound result.
When to use it
Use it to discuss proportionate consideration before a consequential action.
Keep in mind
It does not require indefinite delay or guarantee that deliberation produces the right decision.
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 242; PDF page 38
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