proverb · Words worth keeping
The more you stir, the more it stinks.
The more you stir, the more it stinks.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
The saying makes more stirring produce more stink. In the supplied reading, investigating an unpleasant matter reveals further unwelcome details.
Example
A reader separates the discomfort of learning new details from the question of what actually happened.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The image connects disturbance with what becomes noticeable. A careful application distinguishes discovering a problem from causing it, and does not use discomfort as a reason to conceal wrongdoing. More investigation does not necessarily worsen the matter itself or make every finding reliable.
When to use it
Use it to discuss unpleasant discoveries without discouraging necessary inquiry.
Keep in mind
Unwelcome information is not proof that inquiry caused the problem or should stop.
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