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Explaining “Least said, soonest mended”

Anwar Kareem 30/10/2024, 19:10
English.me team member

What does it mean?

Least said, soonest mended

The phrase suggests that discussing or dwelling on a problem or awkward situation as little as possible will allow it to be resolved or forgotten more quickly.

Tone

Advisory, conciliatory

Origin

Its origins can be traced back to the 19th century, and it appears in various forms in literature. One notable reference is in the works of the English novelist Charles Dickens, who used a similar phrase in his writing. The adage captures the wisdom of discretion and the idea that sometimes silence can be more effective than words.

Examples of usage

  • After the argument, he decided not to bring it up again with his colleague, thinking "least said, soonest mended."
  • When her friend made an embarrassing mistake, she opted not to mention it further; she believed "least said, soonest mended."