Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
Meaning in plain English
Venturing connected with gaining values undertaking an attempt rather than remaining inactive. The saying highlights the possibility that an aim needs some action.
Example
Someone assesses a feasible opportunity and its costs before deciding whether to try it.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
Nothing is an absolute contrast, not proof that every risk is worthwhile or every gain requires danger. A useful application considers the particular goal, resources and acceptable options. An attempt does not guarantee success, and declining an unsuitable risk can be sound judgment.
When to use it
Use it as qualified encouragement with the actual risk examined.
Keep in mind
No guaranteed gain or universal duty to take a risk is established.
Edsverb editorial interpretation · agent reviewed · 2026-10-05. This explains the saying; it does not establish its historical origin.
- Country attributed by the collection
United States · source-attributed; earliest origin unverified
- Source
- Contributor-provided wisdom reference
Supplied reference B; unit 103; PDF page 17; collection label: United States
Reuse and collection notes ↗ - Attribution confidence
- traditional · supplied collection
Preserved as printed; independently unverified. - Historical coordinate
- Undated
No reliable date supplied by the collection. - Rights & edition
- Contributor-confirmed reuse permission
Translations and rights may differ elsewhere.
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