Meaning of the word "he who hesitates is lost" in English

What does "he who hesitates is lost" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

he who hesitates is lost

US /hi hu ˈhɛzəˌteɪts ɪz lɔst/
UK /hiː huː ˈhɛzɪteɪts ɪz lɒst/
"he who hesitates is lost" picture

Idiom

a proverb meaning that if you wait too long to make a decision or take action, you will miss an opportunity

Example:
I should have bought those stocks yesterday, but he who hesitates is lost.
In business, he who hesitates is lost; you must act quickly when a deal appears.