It should be noted that this phrase is extremely well-known. For example, one character might wake another up and remind them that the “early bird gets the worm,” providing them with the motivation they need to get to work. It’s easy to imagine how a writer might include this phrase in their narration or in the dialogue between two characters. Writers use “the early bird gets the worm” in the same way, and for the same reasons, it’s used in everyday conversations. Why Do Writers Use “The early bird gets the worm?” That’s the reason she’s succeeding, the early bird gets the worm.If you don’t get moving, another early bird is going to get the worm.The early bird always gets the worm, you know.Don’t forget, the early bird gets the worm.One friend might use it to remind another of how important it is to start on something early, while another might use it to praise a friend for doing just that. The best way to use it is in good humor with the intention of truly helping someone. If used to talk down to someone, it can be demeaning as well. It can, if used inappropriately, come across as patronizing or controlling. It’s possible to use this phrase in different scenarios. It’s also notable that the phrase hasn’t changed very much since the first time it was recorded. This means that from very early on, it was likely used in a wide variety of situations. It’s fairly simple, especially compared to some proverbs. This might indicate that it originated early in the same century. It was included in this collection, meaning it was also probably known by some readers prior to this. At the time, the phrase read:Īlthough there is very little information about where this proverb comes from, it’s clear that even in the late 1600s, it was well-known enough to be considered a proverb. It was first recorded in A collection of English proverbs by John Ray in 1670 and again in 1678.

Like most proverbs, this one was an unclear origin. Origins of “The early bird gets the worm” The worm is used to symbolize that outcome. The bird is used to symbolize someone who works hard and needs a particular outcome. If you’re not the “early bird” someone else is going to be, and you’ll be left without any food. This refers to one’s capacity to get to work quickly and ensure that no one else gets to the “worm” or the prize before you do. The early bird gets the worm is a proverb that suggests being first, or earliest, is an advantage. Meaning of “The early bird gets the worm”

Late bird gets no worm