go off at half-cock
Definition
Verb phrase: - To act prematurely or without sufficient reflection: To take action too soon, often without adequate planning or consideration, leading to potential problems or failure. This phrase implies a lack of preparation or forethought.
Usage
This phrase is used to describe situations where someone acts rashly or impulsively, before the appropriate time or before being fully ready. It often carries a critical tone, suggesting the action was unwise. - He went off at half-cock and announced the plan before getting final approval. - Don't go off at half-cock; we need to research this more before making a decision.
Advanced Usage
- The phrase originates from firearm terminology, where a gun firing "at half-cock" (with the hammer only partially drawn back) is a misfire or a premature, ineffective discharge. This metaphor is applied to human actions.
- It is often used in the passive-voice construction "to be half-cocked," describing a state of being unprepared.
- His proposal was clearly half-cocked and full of errors.
Variants and Related Words
- Go off half-cocked: A more common variant of the phrase, identical in meaning and usage.
- She warned him not to go off half-cocked with the new marketing strategy.
- Half-cocked (adjective): Poorly planned or conceived; not thought through.
- It was a half-cocked scheme that was doomed from the start.
Synonyms
- Act rashly: To act with sudden, impulsive force without careful thought.
- Jump the gun: To start something before the proper time.
- Premature: Occurring or done before the proper time.
Related Idioms
- Shoot from the hip: To speak or act recklessly or without careful consideration.
- Fly off the handle: To lose one's temper suddenly and unexpectedly.
Verb
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act prematurely or without reflection or too soon
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she wanted to quit her job but her mother told her not to go off half-cocked
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