If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it

usgb
phrase

This is used to say that if something is working fine, it's better to leave it alone and not change it.

The website is performing well. As the saying goes, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
Visual representation of "if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it" - This is used to say that if something is working fine, it's better to leave it alone and not change it.

Often appears as...

  • as the saying goes
  • if it ain’t broke

Usage tips

Informal

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Usage Context

Mostly used in informal contexts or casual conversations, not in formal writing.

Illustration for Usage Context
This old car still runs great, so if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Conservatism

The phrase can imply a conservative approach to improvement or change, suggesting caution.

Illustration for Conservatism
We've always done it this way; if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Literal

It's a metaphorical phrase; 'broke' doesn't only refer to physical objects but to systems and methods.

Illustration for Not Literal
Our weekly meeting format works well; if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
Visual representation of the word "If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it"

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