Meaning of the word "it is idle to swallow the cow and choke on the tail" in English
What does "it is idle to swallow the cow and choke on the tail" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.
it is idle to swallow the cow and choke on the tail
US /ɪt ɪz ˈaɪdəl tu ˈswɑloʊ ðə kaʊ ænd tʃoʊk ɑn ðə teɪl/
UK /ɪt ɪz ˈaɪdəl tu ˈswɒləʊ ðə kaʊ ænd tʃəʊk ɒn ðə teɪl/
Idiom
it is foolish to complete a difficult task but then fail or hesitate at the very last, minor detail
Example:
•
You've spent thousands on the renovation; don't stop now because of the paint cost—it is idle to swallow the cow and choke on the tail.
•
He finished the entire marathon but quit ten meters from the line; it is idle to swallow the cow and choke on the tail.