discretion

Discretion is the better part of valor.

Prov. It is good to be brave, but it is also good to be careful.; If you are careful, you will not get into situations that require you to be brave. Son: Can I go hang gliding with my friends? Father: No. Son: But they'll say I'm chicken if I don't go! Father: Discretion is the better part of valor, and I'd rather have them call you chicken than risk your life.

See also: better, part, valor

ounce of discretion is worth a pound of wit

Prov. Knowing when to refrain from making jokes is better than being able to make jokes all the time. Mabel makes fun of everybody, regardless of whether or not she hurts their feelings. Someone should tell her that an ounce of discretion is worth a pound of wit.

See also: ounce, pound, wit, worth

---

be the soul of discretion

to be good at not talking about things that other people want to keep secret As regards Nigel, he's the soul of discretion. I'm quite sure he won't mention this to anyone.

See bare heart, sell soul

See also: soul

Discretion is the better part of valour.  (British & Australian literary) also Discretion is the better part of valor. (American & Australian literary)

something that you say which means that it is better to be careful and think before you act than it is to be brave and take risks She decided not to voice her opposition to the Chairman's remarks. Perhaps discretion was the better part of valour.

See also: better, part