a bird in the hand is better than two in the bush

Dear friends
I'd really appreciate it if you could explain to me what this proverb mean
A bird in the hand is better than two in the bush
Thanks alot

What you have may appear insufficient, but recognise that it is of more value to you than what seems better, but may be unattainable.

I have a skinny bird in my hand, that will hardly provide a meal for one person. Those two fat birds over there in the bush could provide a meal for six.

But - I have the skinny bird. I do not have the two fat birds. What I actually have is more real and valuable than the 'better' thing that I do not have, and may never have.

mrbin said:

Dear friends,

I'd really appreciate it if you could explain to me what this proverb means:
A bird in the hand is better than two in the bush.
Thanks a_lot.

Click to expand...

I've only ever heard 'A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush'.

But 5jj's explanation says it all.

Rover

Rover_KE said:

I've only ever heard 'A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush'.

Click to expand...

You are right. Thanks.

I was so concerned with trying to explain the meaning, that I didn't notice this.

If I say '' Half a loaf is better than none'' it can be a synonym for a bird in hand worth two in the bush.

arzgol said:

If I say '' Half a loaf is better than none'' it can be a synonym for a bird in hand worth two in the bush.

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The message is the same: be content with what you have. However, the image is different. In this phrase you're contrasting the little you've got against having nothing, while in the one about the birds, the comparison is between the little you've got and the bounty beyond your reach.

Not a teacher

arzgol said:

If I say '' Half a loaf is better than none'' it can be a synonym for a bird in hand worth two in the bush.

Click to expand...

No, "Half a loaf" is usually used to mean one should compromise and be happy with the results. The bird proverb is about the value of what you already have versus what you might (or might not) be able to obtain.