“Discretion is the better part of valour”: meaning, origin and examples
What it means
The phrase Discretion is the better part of valour means that it is often wiser to be cautious and avoid unnecessary risks than to act bravely in a reckless manner.
Tone Advisory and reflective
Where it comes from
This expression originates from William Shakespeare’s play Henry IV, Part 1, where the character Falstaff says, “The better part of valour is discretion.”
Examples
- Recognizing the dangers ahead, they agreed that discretion is the better part of valour and decided to retreat.
- He considered confronting them but thought discretion is the better part of valour and chose to stay silent.
- Understanding that arguing would worsen the situation, she remembered that discretion is the better part of valour and walked away.
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