Meaning: This idiom means that a person is cautious or hesitant to do something again after having a bad or unpleasant experience the first time.
Usage in Example Sentences:
- “After being scammed online, he’s very careful about where he shops. Once bitten, twice shy.”
- “She’s reluctant to start a new business partnership after her last one failed. Once bitten, twice shy.”
- “He doesn’t trust easily anymore. Once bitten, twice shy.”
Origin: This idiom is thought to have originated in the 19th century, with the concept that someone who has experienced something painful or harmful is wary of experiencing it again. The phrase gained popularity and entered common use to describe situations of learned caution or mistrust following a negative experience.
