What does “He knows much who knows how to hold his tongue.” mean?
"He knows much who knows how to hold his tongue" means being able to keep quiet and not speak unnecessarily is a sign of wisdom and knowledge. It is important to think before speaking and to only share information or opinions when it is necessary or beneficial.
What context can I use the in?
Example
In a meeting, it is better to know much who knows how to hold his tongue. Speaking too much can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or unnecessary conflicts.
Example
She always impresses others with her wisdom because she knows much who knows how to hold his tongue. She only speaks when she has something important to say.
Example
Sometimes, it is better to observe and listen rather than to speak. He knows much who knows how to hold his tongue. It shows that he is thoughtful and wise
Is “He knows much who knows how to hold his tongue.” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“He knows much who knows how to hold his tongue.” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “He knows much who knows how to hold his tongue.” effectively in context?
You can use "He knows much who knows how to hold his tongue" to emphasize the importance of listening and observing before speaking. It suggests that someone who is able to stay quiet and not speak unnecessarily is likely to have a lot of knowledge and wisdom. For example, if a friend is about to share their opinion on a sensitive topic, you might say, 'Remember, he knows much who knows how to hold his tongue. Take a moment to think before you speak.'
- 1Meeting
In a meeting, it is better to know much who knows how to hold his tongue. Speaking too much can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or unnecessary conflicts.
- 2Impressing Others
She always impresses others with her wisdom because she knows much who knows how to hold his tongue. She only speaks when she has something important to say.
- 3Observation
Sometimes, it is better to observe and listen rather than to speak. He knows much who knows how to hold his tongue. It shows that he is thoughtful and wise.
Similar phrases to “He knows much who knows how to hold his tongue.”:
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Where does the phrase “He knows much who knows how to hold his tongue.” come from?
The origin of the phrase "He knows much who knows how to hold his tongue" is unknown.
Is “He knows much who knows how to hold his tongue.” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "He knows much who knows how to hold his tongue" is not commonly used in everyday conversation. It is more often found in written texts or formal settings where wisdom and knowledge are emphasized.
What tone does “He knows much who knows how to hold his tongue.” have?
"He knows much who knows how to hold his tongue" conveys a tone of wisdom and reflection. It suggests that being silent and observant can lead to a deeper understanding of a situation or topic.
Can “He knows much who knows how to hold his tongue.” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "He knows much who knows how to hold his tongue" is more formal in nature. It is often used in academic or professional contexts to highlight the importance of thoughtful communication.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
The phrase is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'In a discussion, it is important to know much who knows how to hold his tongue.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'He knows much who knows how to hold his tongue' to imply the importance of staying quiet and observing.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- be silent and learn
- listen more, talk less
- speak when necessary
- wisdom lies in silence
- silent observation leads to knowledge
Antonyms
- blabbermouth
- empty vessels make the most noise
- speak without thinking
- talkative but ignorant
- thoughtless chatter
