Take time by the forelock.
Take time by the forelock.
Meaning in plain English
Take a worthwhile opportunity while it is available. A timely action may be more useful than waiting until the moment has passed and trying to recover it afterwards.
Example
A visitor asks a librarian about an unfamiliar source while the relevant collection is open, instead of assuming the same access will be available on an unspecified later visit.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The image suggests taking hold of a passing moment before it moves beyond reach. The proverb encourages attention to timing when a real opportunity depends on a limited circumstance, such as an available meeting or a chance to ask a question. No historical origin or personification is asserted here. It does not require immediate action on every offer or discourage proper consideration. Some apparent opportunities are unsuitable or use pressure to prevent scrutiny. The useful judgement identifies what is worthwhile, what information is needed and whether delay would actually remove the option rather than merely feel uncomfortable.
When to use it
Use it when a considered and worthwhile action depends on a genuine limited opportunity.
Keep in mind
Do not let urgency replace scrutiny; an offer is not valuable solely because it is presented as temporary.
Edsverb editorial interpretation · agent reviewed · 2026-10-05. This explains the saying; it does not establish its historical origin.
- Source
- A Dictionary of English Proverbs and Proverbial Phrases
Entry 1619 · Time
Read the original context ↗ - Attribution confidence
- traditional · historical anthology
Preserved as printed; independently unverified. - Historical coordinate
- Undated
No reliable date supplied by the collection. - Rights & edition
- Public domain (United States)
Translations and rights may differ elsewhere.
Provenance and licences ↗
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