Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
be better doing something than doing nothing
idiomatic expression
biː ˈbɛtər ˈduːɪŋ ˈsʌmθɪŋ ðæn ˈduːɪŋ ˈnʌθɪŋ
Definition
It is more advantageous or beneficial to actively engage in an activity rather than remaining inactive.
Examples
- It’s better to be better doing something than doing nothing, so let’s get started on that project.
- She realized it is better doing something than doing nothing, so she volunteered to help with the charity event.
- Even if you make mistakes, it is better doing something than doing nothing at all.
Meaning
The phrase implies that participation or effort in a task is preferable compared to the inactivity associated with doing nothing.
Synonyms
- Better to act than to remain idle
- Engagement is preferable to inactivity
- It’s more worthwhile to try than to quit entirely
