Never give advice unasked.
Never give advice unasked.
Meaning in plain English
Advice withheld until asked gives consent and receptiveness a role in offering guidance. The saying questions unsolicited interference.
Example
Someone asks whether another person would like suggestions before giving detailed advice.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The absolute instruction is not a universal prohibition on warning, teaching or offering appropriate help. A useful application asks whether advice is wanted and how to offer it respectfully. Relevant safety concerns and agreed responsibilities may still require communication, with the person’s agency considered.
When to use it
Use it to encourage respectful guidance with context and responsibilities retained.
Keep in mind
No universal ban on unrequested communication is established.
Edsverb editorial interpretation · agent reviewed · 2026-10-05. This explains the saying; it does not establish its historical origin.
- Country attributed by the collection
Germany · source-attributed; earliest origin unverified
- Source
- Contributor-provided wisdom reference
Supplied reference B; unit 789; PDF page 71; collection label: Germany
Reuse and collection notes ↗ - Attribution confidence
- traditional · supplied collection
Preserved as printed; independently unverified. - Historical coordinate
- Undated
No reliable date supplied by the collection. - Rights & edition
- Contributor-confirmed reuse permission
Translations and rights may differ elsewhere.
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