Win at first and lose at last
This is a saying among card-players. Those who win in the early stages of the game usually finish up as losers.
Proverbs with the word First
He that would the daughter win, must with the mother first begin
Most mothers exercise a considerable influence over their daughters, so to gain the goodwill of the mother is a important step towards marrying... Read more →
First thrive and then wive
The wording is old but the lesson is as fresh as ever. Don’t marry until you can well afford to do so.
First impressions are most lasting
We may have met a person many time since our first meeting, but his or her appearance as it struck us then is the one that lingers longest in... Read more →
First come, first served
This is the penalty of lateness. Those who arrive early get a better choice. 'I bought a lovely dress for two pounds at the sale,' Mary told her... Read more →
Discontent is the first step in progress
Were we all completely satisfied with the existing state of affairs, there would be no progress. It is only when we are not content wit the... Read more →
First catch your hare
You cannot cook and eat it until you have caught it, which may not be easy. Don't decide what you are going to do with a thing until it is in... Read more →
The first blow is half the battle
Whoever gets his blow in first catches his adversary at a disadvantage. Here, for the sake of example, is a description of a football... Read more →
Self-preservation is the first law of nature
We often use this as an excuse for our own selfish conduct - for 'looking after number one'.
Cast not the first stone
Before condemning anyone who has done wrong, ask yourself whether your own conduct has been blameless. The proverb derives from the story told... Read more →