Explaining "No news is good news"

Reviewed and edited by

Lloyd Cooper 02/10/2024, 20:41

English.me team member

What does it mean?

The phrase "No news is good news" suggests that if someone hasn't heard any news, it is likely positive because bad news tends to be reported quickly.

Tone

Reassuring

Origin

The phrase is believed to have originated in the 17th century, with one of its earliest uses attributed to James Howell in 1640: "I am of the Italians" mind that said, "Nulla nuova, buona nuova," meaning no news is good news.

Examples of usage

I haven't heard from the doctor yet, but I'm choosing to believe that no news is good news.
She hasn't called back about the job interview, but I'm staying positive since no news is good news.