earlybirdgetstheworm

proverb

UK /ˈɜːli bɜːd ɡets ðə wɜːm/

US /ˈɜrli bɜrd ɡɛts ðə wɜrm/

If you get up early and act fast, you get the good things first.

She arrived at the sale before sunrise because the early bird gets the worm.

SYNONYMS

first come, first served the early bird catches the worm advantage goes to the quick timing is everything

RELATED WORDS

punctuality initiative promptness opportunity preparedness

OTHER MEANINGS

2. Being on time gives you an advantage over people who are late.

He always hands in his homework first—early bird gets the worm.

3. Acting quickly can help you win a prize or a good deal.

The tickets sold out in minutes, so remember: the early bird gets the worm.

4. People who prepare ahead often succeed more than those who wait.

She studied all week and aced the test; the early bird gets the worm.