Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent

Meaning: Saying nothing is often wiser than speaking without knowledge.

Origin: Biblical proverb from Proverbs 17:28, one of the oldest recorded wisdom traditions.

Translations

• French: Même un imbécile semble sage s'il se tait (literally: Even a fool seems wise if he keeps quiet)
• Spanish: Incluso un necio parece sabio si guarda silencio (literally: Even a fool seems wise if he keeps silent)
• Japanese: 愚者も黙していれば賢者に見える (Gusha mo damashite ireba kenja ni mieru) (literally: A fool who keeps silent appears to be wise)

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