# well begun is half done

idiom · CEFR B1

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/well-begun-is-half-done
Updated: 2026-06-07

## Meaning

Getting a good start is important

## Examples

- I prepare my tools first because well begun is half done.
- She spent the whole morning organizing her notes, believing that well begun is half done for her research project.
- The architect insisted on perfecting the initial blueprints, reminding his team that well begun is half done when constructing such a complex building.

## Origin

An ancient proverb quoted by Aristotle; Horace's version is 'dimidium facti qui coepit habet' (he who has begun has the work half done). (disputed)

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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.