Dictionary

discretion is the better part of valour en · X

Etymology

Alteration of "The better part of valour is discretion," spoken by Falstaff in Shakespeare's Henry IV, Act V, Scene 4.

Meanings

1. It is often wise to refrain from seemingly brave, but dangerous, speech or action.
   • The better part of valour is discretion; in the which better part, I have saved my life. c. 1597 (date written), William Shakespeare, “The First Part of Henry the Fourth, […]”, in Mr. William Shakespeares Comedies, Histories, & Tragedies […] (First Folio), London: […] Isaac Iaggard, and Ed[ward] Blount, published 1623, →OCLC, [Act V, scene iv]:
   • 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]. 2019 October, Chris Stokes, “Between the Lines”, in Modern Railways, page 97:

Forms

Translations (2)

cmn 好漢不吃眼前虧 /好汉不吃眼前亏 (it is often wise to refrain from brave speech) · fi varovaisuus on viisautta (it is often wise to refrain from brave speech)