proverb · Words worth keeping
Send a wise man on an errand and say nothing to him.
Send a wise man on an errand and say nothing to him.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
A capable person can exercise judgement without being told every step. The saying values competent discretion, but silence is not a substitute for explaining the purpose, essential constraints or information that the person cannot otherwise know.
Example
A librarian tells an experienced colleague which documents a visitor needs and leaves the colleague to choose the best route through the catalogue.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The wise messenger in the proverb is trusted to adapt to the errand rather than follow a script for every possible encounter. Figuratively, competence gives someone room to choose an appropriate method and respond to circumstances. That freedom can be useful when detailed instructions would restrict good judgement. Yet the errand still needs an understood destination and purpose. A person cannot reliably infer undisclosed requirements merely because they are capable. The phrase say nothing therefore works as rhetorical praise for discretion, not as a complete method of briefing someone. A useful reading combines clear objectives with freedom over the details that do not need to be prescribed.
When to use it
Use it when a competent person needs discretion rather than instructions for every minor step.
Keep in mind
State the purpose and essential constraints; competence does not provide access to information that has been withheld.
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