What does ‘haste makes waste’ mean?
To “haste makes waste” means to rushing produces mistakes. Brewer's records this as an old English proverb.
Origin
- Brewer's records this as an old English proverb.
How to use it
- Standard warning against hurry.
- Example: Slow down and check the numbers — haste makes waste.
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.