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Vocabulary : Sayings : Quizzes : Mixed 4 : Once bitten, twice shy

Once bitten, twice shy

Meaning: If an animal (such as a dog) bites you one time, you will be extra careful the next time. This saying talks about learning from our mistakes.

Note: once (adverb) = one time | twice (adverb) = two times | shy (adj.) = reserved; timid; reluctant | Also: "Once bit, twice shy" and "Once burned, twice shy"

Quick Quiz:

If you are "once bitten, twice shy", you
  1. have learned from a mistake
  2. haven't learned from a mistake
  3. have learned to make the same mistake again

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