Once bitten, twice shy

usgb
phrase

If you are hurt or have a bad experience once, you will be careful to avoid it happening again.

After losing a lot of money in a business deal, he has stayed away from investing. It's a case of once bitten, twice shy.
Visual representation of "once bitten, twice shy" - If you are hurt or have a bad experience once, you will be careful to avoid it happening again.

Often appears as...

  • she's once bitten
  • twice shy

Usage tips

Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "once bitten, twice shy"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emotional Impact

The phrase often implies strong feelings from a past negative experience affecting current behavior.

Illustration for Emotional Impact
He no longer rides motorcycles; once bitten, twice shy.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Literal

It's a metaphorical expression. No actual biting is involved; it refers to any kind of bad experience.

Illustration for Not Literal
After a painful breakup, she stopped dating—once bitten, twice shy.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Common Usage

Used to suggest someone has become more cautious due to a previous negative outcome.

Illustration for Common Usage
He double-checks all his work now; once bitten, twice shy.
Visual representation of the word "Once bitten, twice shy"

Never forget "Once bitten, twice shy"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top