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Explaining "Discretion is the better part of valour"

Reviewed and edited by Anwar Kareem 03/02/2025, 00:36
English.me team member

What does it mean?

Discretion is the better part of valour

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

Origin

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 of usage

  • 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.