Popular Phrases: Origin and Meaning of “A Stitch in Time Saves Nine”

“A stitch in time saves nine,” is a popular phrase. Do you know what it means? I have researched the origin of this phrase and have come up with many possible interpretations. Most interpretations translate to the same similar definition: If you have a task before you, complete is sooner, rather than later, to prevent the task from becoming a bigger job than it has to be.

In researching the origin of this article, I found that most cliché’s have original origins in the bible. No specific passage of scripture was cited as to “A stitch in time saves nine.” Some contend that the phrase originated from mothers who were weary of mending their children’s clothing. Following this theory, the phrase should properly be “A stitch, in time, saves nine.” Meaning, if children rip their clothing, they should bring them for repair immediately. If children continue what they are doing, they cause the rip to become larger, which results in extra work for their mother. As a mother, I like this interpretation better than the other interpretations. I must admit, though, that I rarely mend my children’s clothing. In another translation, the phrase, “a stitch in time saves nine” means that tasks should be completed immediately, or you will have nine times the work when you complete the task.

The first instance of the phrase, “a stitch in time saves nine” appeared in 1732. It was printed in a book called Gnomologia, by Thomas Fuller. It is unknown if he coined the phrase, or simply used a proverb popular during the time. In the 1800’s Louisa May Alcott (author of Little Women) brought the phrase back into popularity in a short story she wrote entitled Kitty’s Day Class.

The many interpretations of the phrase, “A stitch in time saves nine,” are all very similar. Regardless of the interpretation, you prefer, in the end, the meaning is the same…DO NOT PROCRASTINATE. Complete the work you have in a timely manner, otherwise it will become a bigger job than it needed to be.

If you enjoyed this article, and would like to read more by this author, click on her name at the top of this page. This is the fourth in a series of articles about popular phrases and their origins. If you have additional information regarding the phrase, “a stitch in time saves nine,” feel free to contact this author.