Modern Meaning
What Does “Pride goes before a fall” Mean?
Arrogance leads to downfall.
Biblical Origin
Where Does This Phrase Come From?
Solomon's warning about the dangers of arrogance is one of the most quoted proverbs in any language. The KJV's rendering is typically shortened to "pride goes before a fall" — dropping the even stronger parallel about "destruction." The abbreviated form has become proverbial.
The phrase appears in Proverbs 16:18 in the King James Version of the Bible, first published in 1611.
Usage Today
How Is It Used Today?
A warning against overconfidence. "He was so certain of the promotion — pride goes before a fall."
The KJV Verse
Proverbs 16:18
“Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.”
Related Phrases