What does ‘the proof of the pudding is in the eating’ mean?
To “the proof of the pudding is in the eating” means to judge something by trying it, not by talking about it. Brewer's lists this as a classic English proverb, recorded from the 17th century; the modern short form 'the proof is in the pudding' is a misquotation.
Origin
- Brewer's lists this as a classic English proverb, recorded from the 17th century; the modern short form 'the proof is in the pudding' is a misquotation.
How to use it
- Common in debates over new ideas.
- Example: Their plan sounds great, but the proof of the pudding is in the eating.
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.