strike while the iron is hot
Definition from Wiktionary, the free dictionary
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[edit] English
[edit] Verb
to strike while the iron is hot
- (literally, metallurgy) To strike a hot piece of metal, especially iron, with a mallet or other tool before it cools, while it is still hot enough to be shaped.
- (idiomatic) To act on an opportunity promptly while favorable conditions exist; to avoid waiting.
- We should strike while the iron is hot and order some immediately, before they change the offer.
[edit] Usage notes
- When expressed in the imperative mood, this term is a well-known saying or proverb:
- Strike while the iron is hot!
[edit] Synonyms
[edit] Translations
act on an opportunity promptly
[edit] Proverb
- Take advantage of opportunity.
[edit] References
- Gregory Y. Titelman, Random House Dictionary of Popular Proverbs and Sayings, 1996, ISBN 0-679-44554-4, p. 309.