discretion is the better part of valor
phrase
—used to say that it is better to be careful than to do something that is dangerous and unnecessary
Cite this Entry
“Discretion is the better part of valor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/discretion%20is%20the%20better%20part%20of%20valor. Accessed 13 Mar. 2026.
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
