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Explaining "There is no shame in not knowing; the shame lies in not finding out."

Reviewed and edited by Anwar Kareem 23/11/2024, 23:44
English.me team member

What does it mean?

There is no shame in not knowing; the shame lies in not finding out.

The phrase means that it is not disgraceful to lack knowledge about something initially; the true failing is in refusing to seek or acquire the knowledge once you recognize you do not have it.

Tone

Encouraging and motivational

Origin

Often described as a Russian proverb, it reflects a cultural value placed on learning and self-improvement.

Examples of usage

  • When Sarah admitted she didn't understand the math problem and asked her teacher for help, she remembered the phrase, "There is no shame in not knowing; the shame lies in not finding out."
  • During the quiz, Robert whispered to his friend that there is no shame in not knowing; the shame lies in not finding out, as they looked up the answers later together.
  • The mentor told the new employee that there is no shame in not knowing; the shame lies in not finding out, encouraging her to ask questions whenever in doubt.