# let the perfect be the enemy of the good

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/let-the-perfect-be-the-enemy-of-the-good
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To insist on the total realization of a goal and reject any compromise, thereby decreasing the chance of achieving even a part of that goal.

## Examples

- Finish your report now; do not let the perfect be the enemy of the good.
- We need to launch the website today, so please stop editing and do not let the perfect be the enemy of the good.
- While the architect desired a flawless masterpiece, he eventually realized he must not let the perfect be the enemy of the good if he wanted to complete the project on time.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.