Explore the phrase 'throw good money after bad,' its definition, etymology, semantic nuances, cultural usage, and contemporary relevance.
The phrase “throw good money after bad” refers to the act of continuing to invest additional resources, typically financial, into a failing or unprofitable venture. This action is generally perceived as irrational or futile, as it prolongs the commitment to a venture with little or no chance of success.
The origins of “throw good money after bad” can be traced back to the nineteenth century, although the underlying concept of not wasting resources on futile endeavors is much older. The earliest known usage of the phrase in its current form appears in James Payn’s novel The Canon’s Ward (1884), where it is employed to caution against further investment in unpromising circumstances. The expression likely gained traction during this period as a metaphorical admonition against imprudent financial decisions.
Semantically, the phrase encapsulates a cautionary principle against sunk cost fallacy—a cognitive bias where individuals continue investing in a failing project due to the amount already invested. The phrase carries a negative connotation, suggesting imprudence and lack of foresight. It is often employed in financial, business, and personal contexts to advise against further investment in a lost cause.
In contemporary culture, “throw good money after bad” is frequently used in financial discourse, business strategy discussions, and personal advice contexts. The phrase is commonly found in literature and media, serving as a metaphor for the pitfalls of emotional and financial decision-making.
In professional settings, the phrase is used to advise against further financial investments. In social contexts, it may be applied more broadly to caution against any form of resource wastage. In literature, it often symbolizes the human tendency to irrationally persist in doomed efforts.
The phrase “throw good money after bad” remains highly relevant in contemporary discourse, particularly in financial and business contexts. Its enduring utility as a metaphor for caution against imprudent investments suggests a high degree of durability.
Durability: ★★★★☆
“If they would… start free, instead of sending good money after bad—how much happier would be this world of ours!” - James Payn, The Canon’s Ward (1884)