Conserve one’s resources until they are needed; be ready to take action if necessary
Etymology:
- Refers to the gunpowder used in early weaponry and attributed to the English leader Oliver Cromwell in 1642 when, at the battle of Edgehill, he advised his soldiers, “Trust in God, but keep your powder dry.” - As wet gunpowder was very difficult to ignite rendering it harmless.
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The team’s sniper was on the bench for most of the game, as she was just off an injury, but -intending to put her in the game at the right moment- the coach counseled her to keep her powder dry.
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"keep one’s powder dry." Phrases.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 23 Dec. 2024. <https://www.phrases.com/phrase/keep-ones-powder-dry_63874>.
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