What is "measure twice and cut once"

alt. 1 (context carpentry literally English) One should double-check one's measurements for accuracy before cutting a piece of wood; otherwise it may be necessary to cut again, waste time and material. 2 (context figuratively by extension English) plan and prepare in a careful, thorough manner before taking action. prov. 1 (context carpentry literally English) One should double-check one's measurements for accuracy before cutting a piece of wood; otherwise it may be necessary to cut again, waste time and material. 2 (context figuratively by extension English) plan and prepare in a careful, thorough manner before taking action.