What does “Let sleeping dogs lie” mean?

"Let sleeping dogs lie" means to avoid interfering in a situation that is currently calm or stable, as doing so may cause trouble or conflict.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I know there's tension between them, but it's best to just let sleeping dogs lie.

Example

The issue has been resolved for now, so let's just let sleeping dogs lie.

Example

I wanted to confront him about it, but I decided to let sleeping dogs lie

Is “Let sleeping dogs lie” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Let sleeping dogs lie” 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 “Let sleeping dogs lie” effectively in context?

You can use "Let sleeping dogs lie" to advise someone not to disturb or provoke a situation that could potentially lead to trouble or conflict. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining peace and avoiding unnecessary confrontations. For example, if a friend wants to confront someone about a past disagreement, you might say, 'I understand your frustration, but sometimes it's better to just let sleeping dogs lie.'

1Relationships
After their argument, they both decided to let sleeping dogs lie and give each other some space.
2Workplace
Even though she discovered a mistake in her colleague's report, she chose to let sleeping dogs lie to avoid causing tension in the office.
3Family Gatherings
During a family reunion, it's best to let sleeping dogs lie and avoid bringing up sensitive topics that could lead to arguments.

Similar phrases to “Let sleeping dogs lie”:

Stir up a hornet's nest

To cause trouble or provoke a situation that leads to conflict

Example

If you confront him about his mistake, you'll just be stirring up a hornet's nest.

Poke the bear

To provoke or irritate someone or a situation that could lead to trouble

Example

She knew that criticizing his work would be like poking the bear.

Open a can of worms

To create a situation that will cause many problems or difficulties

Example

Bringing up the topic of politics at the dinner table would open a can of worms.

Rock the boat

To disrupt or disturb a stable situation, often causing conflict or tension

Example

She didn't want to rock the boat by expressing her disagreement with the team's decision.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Let sleeping dogs lie” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Let sleeping dogs lie" is unknown.

Is “Let sleeping dogs lie” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Let sleeping dogs lie" is a common proverb that is often used in everyday conversation. People use it to advise others to avoid unnecessary conflicts and maintain peace.

What tone does “Let sleeping dogs lie” have?

"Let sleeping dogs lie" conveys a tone of caution and wisdom. It suggests that it is better to leave certain situations undisturbed to prevent potential trouble or conflict.

Can “Let sleeping dogs lie” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Let sleeping dogs lie" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a widely recognized proverb that conveys the idea of avoiding unnecessary conflicts. You can use it in conversations with friends, family, colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He decided to let sleeping dogs lie and not bring up the issue again.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the proverb even if used alone, like saying 'Let sleeping dogs lie' to imply the advice of avoiding unnecessary conflicts.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

avoid unnecessary conflicts
maintain peace
leave well enough alone
don't ruffle feathers
keep the peace

Antonyms

confront the issue
stir up trouble
provoke conflict
address the problem
bring up the past