discretion is the better part of valour

English

Alternative forms

• discretion is the better part of valor (US)

Proverb

discretion is the better part of valour

1. It is often wise to refrain from seemingly brave speech or action.
   • 1597 — William Shakespeare, Henry IV, Part 1, act v, scene 4

     The better part of valour is discretion; in the which better part, I have saved my life.

   • 2019 October, Chris Stokes, “Between the Lines”, in Modern Railways, page 97:

     At least there was no problem with Alison travelling on the 'wrong' train - discretion was the better part of valour for ticket checks [on a train full of football supporters].

References

• “discretion is the better part of valour”, in Lexico, Dictionary.com; Oxford University Press, 2019–2022.