What does “Least said, soonest mended.” mean?
"Least said, soonest mended" means that it is often better to say as little as possible to avoid making a situation worse or causing unnecessary conflict.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I think it's best if we don't discuss this matter any further. Least said, soonest mended. Let's move on.
Example
After their argument, they decided to give each other some space and not bring up the issue again. Least said, soonest mended.
Example
She realized that arguing with her colleague would only escalate the situation, so she chose to remain silent. *Least said, soonest mended.
Is “Least said, soonest mended.” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Least said, soonest mended.” 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 “Least said, soonest mended.” effectively in context?
You can use "Least said, soonest mended" to emphasize the importance of keeping quiet in certain situations to prevent further damage or conflict. It suggests that it's often better to say as little as possible to avoid making a situation worse. For example, if a friend is involved in a disagreement with someone, you might advise them, 'Just let it go. Remember, "least said, soonest mended".'
- 1Conflict Resolution
Instead of arguing back, she chose to remain silent and follow the principle of least said, soonest mended.
- 2Avoiding Gossip
When her coworkers started gossiping about a colleague, she decided to walk away, remembering the saying least said, soonest mended.
- 3Preventing Misunderstandings
After a misunderstanding with her friend, she decided to give it some time and not discuss it further, following the advice of least said, soonest mended.
Similar phrases to “Least said, soonest mended.”:
It is better to remain silent and be considered ignorant than to speak and prove it.
Example
She remembered the saying better to be silent and thought a fool than to speak and remove all doubt and chose not to comment on the topic.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Least said, soonest mended.” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Least said, soonest mended" is unknown.
Is “Least said, soonest mended.” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "Least said, soonest mended" is not as common in everyday conversation as some other proverbs or idioms, but it is still known and used by native English speakers. It is often used in more formal or reflective contexts when discussing conflict resolution or the importance of silence in certain situations.
What tone does “Least said, soonest mended.” have?
"Least said, soonest mended" conveys a tone of caution and wisdom. It suggests that speaking less can lead to quicker resolutions and prevent unnecessary complications.
Can “Least said, soonest mended.” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "least said, soonest mended" is considered more formal and is often used in more serious or reflective conversations. It may be used in professional settings or when discussing personal conflicts or sensitive topics.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
The phrase "least said, soonest mended" is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'It's best if we don't discuss this matter any further. "Least said, soonest mended."' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying '"Least said, soonest mended"' to imply the need for silence or restraint.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- hold your tongue
- keep mum
- keep your mouth shut
- zip your lips
- say nothing
Antonyms
- speak your mind
- air your grievances
- open up
- express yourself
- voice your opinion
