There is a time to speak as well as to be silent.

Meaning: Knowing when to withhold words proves as valuable as knowing when to voice them.

Origin: From 'A Dictionary of English Proverbs and Proverbial Phrases' (1870). Public domain.

More proverbs about Communication

Many speak much that cannot speak well. — Verbose people often lack the clarity and wisdom that characterizes truly eloquent speech.
Speak fair and think what you will. — Private thoughts remain free even when public words must be diplomatic and measured.
Speech is the picture of the mind. — Words reveal a person's inner thoughts, beliefs, and character more honestly than any del…
One story is good until another's told. — The first account you hear seems credible until you consider alternative perspectives and…
He that strikes with the sword shall be beaten with the scabbard. — Violence begets proportional retaliation; aggressors face consequences matching their own…
Who draws his sword against his prince must throw away the scabbard. — Rebellion against authority demands absolute commitment—there is no safe retreat or hedge…

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