discretion is the greater part of valour

D

discretion is the greater part of valour
also, discretion is the better part of valour

Meaning

• to be quiet about it after helping someone out
• to not make a show of helping
• to keep a good deed low key

Example Sentences

1. The man I admire the most has always taught me that discretion is the greater part of valour.
2. You don’t have to put everything on your wall, discretion is the greater part of valour.
3. My father used to say this a lot “discretion is the greater part of valour” but today’s generation is all about showing it off on their social media accounts.
4. No matter how much you disagree, you very well know that discretion is the greater part of valour. There is no arguing on this point.
5. Even though you know that discretion is the greater part of valour, you went and posted this story on your blog? I’m appalled.

Origin

The literary origin of this phrase comes from Shakespeare’s Henry IV written in 1596. The phrase was coined in the 15^th century in Britain when valour, courage and honour were the trends that needed to be showed as well as practiced. No gentleman was expected to be without it. When allowing a favour to someone, the valour of the man was seen in the fact that he kept it to himself. Of course, women, at the time, did not need to have either of these qualities and could suffice just by being able to run a household.

Synonyms

• discretion is the better part of valour