In everyday conversations, especially when making decisions, people often use expressions that capture a cautious or conservative approach. One such idiom is to err on the safe side. This phrase has become common in both casual speech and professional settings. It suggests that, rather than taking a risk, it is better to choose the safer or more cautious option. This idiom is widely understood, and using it appropriately can help you sound more fluent and thoughtful in English. In this topic, we will explore the meaning, origin, usage, and various examples of to err on the safe side.
Understanding the Idiom
What Does ‘To Err on the Safe Side’ Mean?
To err on the safe side means to act with extra caution in order to avoid potential danger, loss, or error. It is based on the idea that it’s better to make a mistake by being too careful than to suffer negative consequences by being careless or taking unnecessary risks.
This idiom is often used when making decisions under uncertainty. If you are unsure whether a situation could turn out badly, choosing to err on the safe side means taking a safer route, even if it might be overly cautious or inconvenient.
Example Usage in Sentences
- It might not rain, but I’ll bring an umbrella to err on the safe side.
- Let’s leave early to err on the safe side and avoid the traffic.
- I applied for a visa three months in advance, just to err on the safe side.
Origin and Structure of the Idiom
Where Did It Come From?
The phrase uses the word err, which comes from Latinerrare, meaning to wander or to make a mistake. In modern English, to err means to make a mistake. When paired with on the safe side, it implies that if a mistake is going to be made, let it be one that leans toward safety.
This idiom has been in use since at least the 19th century and remains common in both spoken and written English. It is frequently used by professionals, parents, travelers, and health-conscious individuals who want to emphasize careful decision-making.
Common Situations Where the Idiom Is Used
Health and Safety
One of the most frequent areas where people choose to err on the safe side is when health or safety is involved. For example, during a pandemic, people might choose to wear masks or avoid large gatherings even if the risk appears low. They do this not because they are certain something bad will happen, but to reduce possible danger.
Finance and Investment
In financial decisions, erring on the safe side might mean investing in low-risk assets, keeping extra emergency funds, or avoiding overly aggressive stock purchases. Investors use this strategy to protect their wealth, especially during times of market uncertainty.
Travel and Planning
Travelers often make conservative choices to avoid unexpected problems. Booking accommodations early, purchasing travel insurance, or arriving at the airport ahead of time are all examples of erring on the safe side.
Education and Career
Students might prepare extra study materials or apply to more universities to ensure success. Employees might double-check their reports before submitting them. These are simple examples of using caution to prevent negative outcomes.
Benefits of Erring on the Safe Side
Minimizing Risks
The biggest benefit of erring on the safe side is reducing the chance of problems. Whether it’s preventing a missed flight, avoiding an argument, or stopping a medical issue from getting worse, caution often pays off.
Peace of Mind
People who act cautiously often feel less anxiety. Even if the cautious step turns out to be unnecessary, they can relax knowing they took proper precautions. This peace of mind is especially valuable in stressful situations.
Improved Reputation
In professional settings, cautious behavior can enhance your reputation. Employers and clients usually appreciate someone who checks details, anticipates problems, and acts responsibly. It shows maturity and responsibility.
When Caution Might Be Too Much
Over-Cautious Behavior
Although the idiom promotes caution, it’s possible to be too careful. Constantly avoiding all risk can lead to missed opportunities or delays. For example, if someone avoids all investments out of fear, they may lose out on growing their money over time.
Balancing Safety and Opportunity
Using good judgment is key. Not every situation requires maximum caution. Understanding when to take a risk and when to err on the safe side is part of decision-making wisdom. In some cases, bold choices may lead to success.
Related Idioms and Phrases
Other Idioms with Similar Meanings
- Better safe than sorry – Encourages caution to avoid future regret.
- Look before you leap – Suggests checking risks before taking action.
- Play it safe – Means choosing a path with less risk or uncertainty.
These phrases all emphasize a careful, thoughtful approach. They are useful alternatives to express similar ideas in different contexts.
How to Use the Idiom in Conversation
Tips for Natural Use
When you want to use the phrase to err on the safe side, make sure the context involves a choice between caution and risk. It’s often used to explain or justify why you took a more careful route than necessary. Try to pair it with actions that show thoughtfulness, such as preparing, bringing extra supplies, or avoiding trouble.
Examples of Natural Dialogues
Person A: Do you really need to bring three chargers on your trip?
Person B: Maybe not, but I’d rather err on the safe side.
Person A: We’re 30 minutes early for the interview.
Person B: Exactly. I wanted to err on the safe side in case of traffic.
To err on the safe side is a versatile and widely used idiom that promotes making cautious decisions in uncertain situations. It is especially relevant in areas such as health, finance, travel, and planning. While being overly cautious may sometimes limit opportunities, using this phrase shows responsibility and awareness of risk. Whether you’re preparing for a trip, making a decision at work, or simply choosing how to respond to a situation, knowing when and how to err on the safe side can help you avoid problems and stay ahead. This idiom remains a valuable part of everyday English, encouraging thoughtfulness and good judgment.