Etymology Journal ยท S
Strike while the iron is hot
Meaning
- To take action immediately when an opportunity presents itself. If you wait too long, the situation might change and you will lose your chance.
Urgent, motivational
Used in a sentence
- The market is looking great, so you should strike while the iron is hot and sell the house.
- She seemed interested in the project, so I struck while the iron was hot and sent the proposal.
- If you want to ask for a raise, you better strike while the iron is hot after that successful presentation.
The backstory
A reference to the work of a blacksmith. The metal must be struck and shaped while it is glowing red hot, because once it cools, it is impossible to bend.
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