- What does the phrase mean 'Prevention is better than a cure'?
This is a phrase that basically means it is better to stop something happening in the first place than allowing it to happen and then try to fix it. We often know when something bad is going to happen but it seems easier to just let it happen and then clean up the mess later on. Realistically we know we should try and stop it but, like with many things in our lives, we put it off to the last moment and by this point it is too late.
- When would this phrase be used?
This phrase is often used in medical terms and can relate to everything from diseases and infections to broken bones and common colds. It is much easier to try and stay away from people, who may have contagious infections or diseases to avoid catching them than it is to risk catching them and then try to get better.
- Prevention is better than a cure in relation to sex
You may hear this phrase in relation to sex and it is often said by people who are trying to promote abstinence. It is often said that it is easier to practice safe sex and avoid infections, such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or the possibility of unwanted pregnancies by not having sex at all.
Safe sex practices such as using condoms are encouraged all over the world, but some people encourage abstinence and say that 'no sex is the safest type'. The phrase may be brought up in the case of life threatening sexually transmitted infections such as HIV and AIDS, because there is no cure for these diseases so preventing them is the only way to make sure you never have them. Medications can slow the progression of the infection, but once a person has it, they will have it for life.
