When in doubt, don’t do it.
When in doubt, don’t do it.
Meaning in plain English
Doubt followed by a recommendation not to act gives uncertainty a reason for restraint. The saying favours caution before commitment.
Example
Someone pauses a reversible decision long enough to check an important uncertainty.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The absolute instruction is not a universal decision rule. Sometimes delay also has consequences and timely action is necessary. A useful application identifies what is uncertain, gathers relevant information and considers the costs of both acting and waiting rather than treating every doubt as a permanent veto.
When to use it
Use it as a caution to examine uncertainty alongside the consequences of delay.
Keep in mind
No universal safety or correct outcome from inaction 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
France · source-attributed; earliest origin unverified
- Source
- Contributor-provided wisdom reference
Supplied reference B; unit 770; PDF page 70; collection label: France
Reuse and collection notes ↗ - Attribution confidence
- traditional · supplied collection
Preserved as printed; independently unverified. - Historical coordinate
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No reliable date supplied by the collection. - Rights & edition
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