What does ‘a stitch in time saves nine’ mean?
To “a stitch in time saves nine” means to a small early fix prevents bigger later problems. Brewer's lists this among the classic English proverbs of thrift and prudence, recorded from the 18th century.
Origin
- Brewer's lists this among the classic English proverbs of thrift and prudence, recorded from the 18th century.
How to use it
- Standard case for preventive maintenance.
- Example: Fix the leak now — a stitch in time saves nine.
Source:
Last verified: 2026-07-18
- Definitions and origins are drawn from public-domain reference works, primarily Brewer's Dictionary of Phrase and Fable (1898), with modern usage notes clearly marked.