Put All Your Eggs in One Basket – Meaning and Examples
Have you ever invested all your savings in one stock, relied on a single client for your entire income, or planned your whole vacation around one activity—only to have it fail? In English, we say you put all your eggs in one basket! This cautionary idiom warns against depending entirely on one plan, person, or opportunity, because if it fails, you lose everything.
What Does “Put All Your Eggs in One Basket” Mean?
“Put all your eggs in one basket” means to risk everything on a single choice or opportunity. Think of carrying eggs in a basket: if you drop it, every egg breaks. But if you use two baskets, you might save half! The phrase isn’t about real eggs—it’s a wise, visual way to say, “Don’t risk it all on one thing.”
When to Use It
Use this phrase in casual or thoughtful conversations with friends, family, or coworkers when discussing money, careers, relationships, or plans that lack backup options. It’s common in advice about investing, job hunting, business, or even dating. This idiom is informal but widely respected—great for real-life chats, not formal reports.
Example Sentences
- Don’t put all your eggs in one basket—apply to several jobs, not just your dream company.
- He invested his entire savings in one crypto coin. Classic case of putting all his eggs in one basket.
- It’s risky to rely on one client for 90% of your income. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket!
- She only studied one topic for the exam. Big mistake—never put all your eggs in one basket.
Mini Dialogue
Alex: “I’m betting everything on this new app idea.”
Jamie: “Be careful. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket—keep your day job for now.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t use this phrase when someone is simply focused or committed. It only applies when there’s a clear lack of backup plans or diversification—not just dedication.
❌ Don’t say: “She practices piano four hours a day—she’s putting all her eggs in one basket.” (That’s discipline, not risk!)
✅ Do say: “He quit his job to start a business with no savings—putting all his eggs in one basket.”
Practice Tip
Next time you’re making a plan, ask yourself: “Am I putting all my eggs in one basket?” If yes, consider a backup! It’s a smart habit—and a natural way to use this idiom in English.
Final Note
Now you can use “put all your eggs in one basket” to encourage smart, balanced decisions! It’s a timeless phrase that promotes resilience through diversification. Keep using it—and remember, wise people spread their eggs across many baskets.