let the perfect be the enemy of the good: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "let the perfect be the enemy of the good" is a valuable reminder of the dangers of pursuing perfection at the expense of attainable goals. This idiom has a long history and has been used in various contexts to caution against the pitfalls of excessive perfectionism.

One interesting fact about this idiom is that it can be traced back to a 1644 letter by French writer and philosopher Voltaire. While the exact wording in Voltaire's letter is different, the concept remains the same. Voltaire wrote, "The best is the enemy of the good," expressing the idea that striving for perfection can hinder progress and prevent the achievement of what is already good or satisfactory.

The idiom gained further prominence in the 18th century when it was popularized by Italian philosopher and economist Carlo M. Cipolla in his book "Allegro ma non troppo." Cipolla used the idiom to emphasize the importance of recognizing and appreciating incremental progress, even if it falls short of perfection. This resonated with readers and led to its adoption in various fields of study.

Importantly, this idiom applies not only to individuals but also to collective efforts and decision-making processes. When a group of people is working towards a common goal, the idiom serves as a reminder of the potential harm caused by an obsession with perfection. It encourages compromise, collaboration, and a focus on practical results rather than unattainable ideals.

Let's consider how this idiom is related to two other idioms: "leave something to be desired" and "let well alone."

The idiom "leave something to be desired" conveys the idea that something is not as good as it could or should be. It suggests that there are areas for improvement or areas that are lacking. While the idiom "let the perfect be the enemy of the good" warns against the pursuit of perfection, the idiom "leave something to be desired" acknowledges that there is room for improvement. It recognizes that even if something is good, it may not be perfect and can still benefit from further development or enhancement.

Similarly, the idiom "let well alone" advises against unnecessary interference or alteration of something that is already satisfactory. It implies that it is better to leave things as they are when they are already functioning well or meeting expectations. This idiom aligns with the cautionary message of "let the perfect be the enemy of the good" by emphasizing the value of recognizing and appreciating what is already good or satisfactory.

In modern society, the pressure to excel and achieve unattainable standards is widespread. Individuals often find themselves overwhelmed by the quest for perfection, which can lead to stress, burnout, and a neglect of achievable goals. The idiom "let the perfect be the enemy of the good" serves as a valuable reminder to balance ambition with realistic expectations. It encourages individuals to recognize the value of their accomplishments, even if they fall short of perfection.

The longevity of this idiom and its continued use in various contexts showcase its enduring relevance and universal appeal. People across cultures and time periods recognize the potential dangers and limitations associated with an unrelenting pursuit of perfection. While the idiom imparts a cautionary message, it also provides a sense of relief and reassurance by reminding individuals that it is often more valuable to embrace the imperfect good rather than endlessly striving for an elusive perfect.