proverb · Words worth keeping
A man never surfeits of too much honesty.
A man never surfeits of too much honesty.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
The saying treats honesty as a virtue that is not spoiled simply by having more of it. Its exaggerated language praises integrity, while truthful conduct still requires care about privacy, timing and how words affect others.
Example
A contributor tells an editor which part of a draft they have checked and which part still needs confirmation, rather than claiming that the whole piece is ready.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
Surfeiting means reaching an excess that becomes unpleasant. The proverb denies that excess in the case of honesty, placing integrity among qualities worth maintaining rather than rationing. A useful reading asks whether truthfulness is being abandoned merely because deception would be convenient. It does not demand indiscriminate disclosure of everything a person knows. Respecting confidence, admitting uncertainty and choosing considerate language can all belong to honest conduct. A statement can be technically true while being misleading in context, so honesty also concerns the impression created. The saying praises the virtue without supplying a complete answer to every difficult question about what should be said.
When to use it
Use it to support integrity when convenient evasion or exaggerated certainty is being considered.
Keep in mind
Truthfulness includes context and uncertainty; it does not require exposing private information or speaking without care.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- Date unknown
- Culture
- English