He that knows himself best, esteems himself least.
He that knows himself best, esteems himself least.
Editorial context: This saying’s extreme comparison concerns self-importance. Self-knowledge does not require low self-worth, ignoring strengths or accepting disrespect.
Meaning in plain English
Knowing one’s own limitations can reduce self-importance. The proverb gives humility an exaggerated form; it need not mean that accurate self-understanding requires low self-worth, disregard for strengths or constant criticism of oneself.
Example
An experienced baker identifies where a new recipe exceeds their knowledge, asks a colleague for advice and still recognises the techniques they can contribute.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
Knows himself best points to awareness of weaknesses, mistakes and the limits of one’s knowledge. Esteems himself least takes the resulting modesty to an emphatic extreme. A useful interpretation distinguishes less inflated self-importance from less personal worth: recognising a limitation can make someone more willing to listen, learn or ask for help. It does not erase skills or achievements, and a person who speaks confidently is not therefore lacking self-knowledge. The proverb can challenge complacency while still allowing a fair account of both strengths and weaknesses. Its comparison should not become a competition in self-denigration or a reason to dismiss someone’s contribution.
When to use it
Use it when encouraging honest reflection and openness to learning rather than boasting.
Keep in mind
Humility does not require low self-worth or denial of strengths; this is not a measure of personal value.
Edsverb editorial interpretation · agent reviewed · 2026-10-05. This explains the saying; it does not establish its historical origin.
- Source
- A Dictionary of English Proverbs and Proverbial Phrases
Entry 500 · Esteems
Read the original context ↗ - Attribution confidence
- traditional · historical anthology
Preserved as printed; independently unverified. - Historical coordinate
- Undated
No reliable date supplied by the collection. - Rights & edition
- Public domain (United States)
Translations and rights may differ elsewhere.
Provenance and licences ↗