Silence is an ornament for women.
SophoclesRead
Not all things are to be discovered; many are better concealed.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Some truths are better left hidden, as revealing them can lead to unnecessary complications.
This quote by Sophocles highlights the idea that not every piece of knowledge or truth needs to be uncovered. In some cases, keeping certain information concealed can protect oneself and others from harm, misunderstanding, or unnecessary conflict. The pursuit of knowledge should be balanced with wisdom about what should remain undisclosed.
Themes
KnowledgeSecretsWisdomTruthConcealment
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about ethics, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of discretion.
More from Sophocles
All quotes βNone love the messenger who brings bad news.
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All men make mistakes, but a good man yields when he knows his course is wrong, and repairs the evil. The only crime is pride.
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Not even Ares battles against necessity.
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You clearly hate to yield, but you will regret it when your anger has passed. Such natures are justly the hardest for themselves to bear.
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There is nothing more hateful than bad advice.
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