proverb · Words worth keeping
He seems brave who is afraid to run away.
He seems brave who is afraid to run away.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
Apparent bravery caused by fear of running away contrasts a visible action with a possible hidden motive. The saying questions courage judged by appearance alone.
Example
Someone avoids judging a colleague’s courage solely from whether they stay in a difficult setting.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The sentence does not establish anyone’s actual intention or make staying or leaving a reliable measure of courage. A useful application considers context without mind-reading or shaming withdrawal. It does not recommend remaining in danger or imply that fear makes someone unworthy.
When to use it
Use it to question outward courage judgments without predicting motives.
Keep in mind
No courage, cowardice or safety established by staying or leaving alone.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
United Kingdom
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin.- Historical period
- Date unknown
- Culture
- United Kingdom