Home button

The meaning and origin of the expression: Silence is golden

Facebook

Silence is golden

What's the meaning of the phrase 'silence is golden'.

A proverbial saying, often used in circumstances where it is thought that saying nothing is preferable to speaking.

What's the origin of the phrase 'Silence is golden'?

Silence is golden - Thomas Carlyle

"Silence is the element in which great things fashion themselves together; that at length they may emerge, full-formed and majestic, into the daylight of Life, which they are thenceforth to rule. Not William the Silent only, but all the considerable men I have known, and the most undiplomatic and unstrategic of these, forbore to babble of what they were creating and projecting. Nay, in thy own mean perplexities, do thou thyself but hold thy tongue for one day: on the morrow, how much clearer are thy purposes and duties; what wreck and rubbish have those mute workmen within thee swept away, when intrusive noises were shut out! Speech is too often not, as the Frenchman defined it, the art of concealing Thought; but of quite stifling and suspending Thought, so that there is none to conceal. Speech too is great, but not the greatest. As the Swiss Inscription says: Sprecfien ist silbern, Schweigen ist golden (Speech is silvern, Silence is golden); or as I might rather express it: Speech is of Time, Silence is of Eternity."

That fuller version - 'speech is silver; silence is golden', is still sometimes used, although the shorter form is now more common.

The same thought is expressed in a 16th century proverb, now defunct - as many present-day feminists would prefer it:

"Silence is a woman's best garment."

Silence has in fact long been considered laudable in religious circles. The 14th century author Richard Rolle of Hampole, in The psalter; or psalms of David , 1340:

"Disciplyne of silence is goed."

Wyclif's Bible , 1382 also includes the thought - "Silence is maad in heuen". [made in Heaven]

Gary Martin - the author of the phrases.org.uk website.

By Gary Martin

Gary Martin is a writer and researcher on the origins of phrases and the creator of the Phrase Finder website. Over the past 26 years more than 700 million of his pages have been downloaded by readers. He is one of the most popular and trusted sources of information on phrases and idioms.

Gary Martin, author of the www.phrases.org.uk website.

Silence is Golden

Like many other phrases, the origin of this phrase also lies in the mist of time. It is reported that it has links with some other versions of the proverb , dating back to Egyptian history. However, its first example in English was its use by Thomas Carlyle, a poet who translated it from German to English in his novel Sartor Resartus  (“The Tailor Retailored”). In the novel, it reads as “Sprecfien ist silbern, Schweigen ist golden (“ Speech is silvern, Silence is golden”); or as I might rather express it: Speech is of Time, Silence is of Eternity.” One of the characters speaks these lines, by which he means that discretion could be more important than eloquence.

The meaning of this phrase is that silence needs authority of mind and a specific type of power ; to keep silent is not easier than expressing anger, love, happiness, and betrayal with words. This phrase is the part of a proverb, “Speech is silver, silence is golden.” We use it in such circumstances where it is considered that silence is preferable to speaking. Just like gold, in a right time and place, silence lends grandeur and charm to human lives. It is like an ornament, which is enduring and has unparalleled beauty .

These days, the fuller version of this phrase, “speech is silver; silence is golden” is frequently used, though the shorter form, “silence is golden” is more common. For instance, lovers prefer to speak in silence, as it is a more romantic and famous way of telepathy between those who share strong and powerful feelings of love. Sometimes silence can play a great role, like huge wars were stopped due to just a few words, avoiding unnecessary words that might have hurt others.

Similarly, when two close friends meet after a long time, they could say many things — sharing complaints, secrets, questions, and much more. However, the very first thing they often share is silence. Thus, it justifies that speech is less significant than silence, as it lets us know about our inner selves.

Literary Source

This phrase is used by Thomas Carlyle in his novel, where he tells about virtues and of silence. It goes on as, “Silence is the element in which great things fashion themselves together, into the daylight of Life… Speech too is great, but not the greatest. As the Swiss Inscription says: Sprecfien ist silbern, Schweigen ist golden (“Speech is silvern, Silence is golden”); or as I might rather express it: “Speech is of Time, Silence is of Eternity.”

( Sartor Resartus )

Literary Analysis

When we are silent and waiting, something great inside us keeps on growing, and silence gives birth to creativity, moreover the more we keep ourselves silent, the less our hearts will be hurt. In the past, silence would be a great way of communication, and more effective than speaking. For instance, often, a silent but angry look from our parents is enough to communicate their disapproval or fury; and it can make us behave in a much better way than harsh scolding. It simply tells us that, when we remain silent and wait, something great keeps us growing, and gives us creativity.

Literary Device

  • Metaphor : Gold is used as a metaphor for silence.

Related posts:

  • The Sound of Silence
  • 5 Metaphors in Harry Potter
  • 10 Great Metaphors from Popular Music
  • 200 Short and Sweet Metaphor Examples
  • Top 6 Great Metaphors in Presidential Speeches
  • Famous Metaphors in The Bible
  • Hamlet Act-I, Scene-I Study Guide
  • Heavy is The Head That Wears The Crown
  • Star-crossed Lovers
  • The Quality of Mercy is Not Strain’d
  • There is a Tide in the Affairs of Men
  • A Thing of Beauty is a Joy For Ever
  • The Winter of Our Discontent
  • Tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow
  • Every Cloud has a Silver Lining
  • Raining Cats and Dogs
  • You Are What You Eat
  • Famous Metaphors from Athletes, Artists, and Authors
  • Romeo and Juliet Metaphor
  • Metaphors in Movies
  • 10 Great Metaphors from Popular 2000’s Songs
  • 10 Amazing Metaphors in Poems

Post navigation

The Idioms

Largest idiom dictionary

silence is golden

  • it is often better to say nothing at all
  • keeping your mouth shut is a great virtue
  • peace and quiet is to be enjoyed

Example Sentences

  • Do not tell your mom that I broke her vase! Remember, silence is golden .
  • This will stay between us, right? Silence is golden.
  • My secretary is more than welcome to stay during the meeting, she won’t betray your confidence. Silence is golden .
  • Are you still talking? It feels like it has been hours. Silence is golden .
  • “How did you manage to keep quiet when he asked you about his horrible play?” “I didn’t say anything. My mom taught me that silence is golden .”
  • I love it when my kids are at school. Silence is golden .
  • We are going camping in the woods this weekend. There will be no one around for miles. Silence is golden .

The full idiom is “speech is silver, but silence is golden” meaning that words are important, but sometimes it is better to say nothing. The whole phrase is seldom used and the shortened version is now more well-known.

In 1831, the poet, Thomas Carlyle, translated it from German to English in his novel  Sartor Resartus . In the novel, it reads as “Sprecfienistsilbern, Schweigenist golden meaning “Speech is silver, Silence is golden”

Share your thoughts 1 Thought

When you have so angry that time you stay silence, after pass some time your anger is controlled and dissolved. That time you think only positive.

‒ Gauri zagare August 3, 2020

Share your thoughts

Gold , Silence

Similar Idioms

  • shades of grey
  • see eye to eye

Proverb Hunter

Speech is silver, silence is golden

Gold is more precious than silver, and there are times when it is better to be silent than to speak.

  • He cannot speak well that cannot hold his tongue
  • There is a time to speak and a time to be silent

Related Proverbs

Kill not the goose that lays golden eggs.

A Greek fable tells of a man who possessed a goose that laid golden eggs. Impatient and avaricious by... Read more →

A golden key opens every door

The ‘golden key’ is money, which overcomes for its possessors all the obstacles barring the way... Read more →

Sayings

Speech is silver, silence is golden

This page is about the saying "Speech is silver, silence is golden"

Possible meaning: Speaking is good but saying nothing is better. Discretion can be worth more than even eloquent words.

If it's true that "speech is silver, silence is golden", then words can be

See Saying of the Day today

Contributor: Josef Essberger

Speech Is Silver, Silence Is Golden

speech is silver meaning

What Does "Speech Is Silver, Silence Is Golden" Mean?

Examples in sentences.

  • In sensitive negotiations, it's often best to remember that speech is silver, silence is golden.
  • When faced with criticism or accusations, he chose to stay silent, remembering the saying that speech is silver, silence is golden.
  • She adhered to the principle that sometimes it's wise to hold one's tongue, as speech is silver, silence is golden.

meaning for speech is silver, silence is golden

A Quick Test

gold cup

  • This test has questions.
  • A correct answer is worth 5 points.
  • You can get up to 5 bonus points for a speedy answer.
  • Some questions demand more than one answer. You must get every part right.
  • Beware! Wrong answers score 0 points.
  • 🏆 If you beat one of the top 3 scores, you will be invited to apply for the Hall of Fame.
  • Do you disagree with something on this page?
  • Did you spot a typo?
  • Subscriber Services
  • For Authors
  • Publications
  • Archaeology
  • Art & Architecture
  • Bilingual dictionaries
  • Classical studies
  • Encyclopedias
  • English Dictionaries and Thesauri
  • Language reference
  • Linguistics
  • Media studies
  • Medicine and health
  • Names studies
  • Performing arts
  • Science and technology
  • Social sciences
  • Society and culture
  • Overview Pages
  • Subject Reference
  • English Dictionaries
  • Bilingual Dictionaries

Recently viewed (0)

  • Save Search

The Oxford Dictionary of Phrase and Fable$

  • Find at OUP.com
  • Google Preview
  • Share This Facebook LinkedIn Twitter

More on this Topic

  • View overview page for this topic

Related Content

In this work, other online resources.

  • ProQuest Literature Online
  • Publishing Information
  • General Links for this Work
  • Introduction

speech is silver, but silence is golden  

proverbial saying, mid 19th century; meaning that discretion can be more valuable than the most eloquent words (see also ... ...

Access to the complete content on Oxford Reference requires a subscription or purchase. Public users are able to search the site and view the abstracts and keywords for each book and chapter without a subscription.

Please subscribe or login to access full text content.

If you have purchased a print title that contains an access token, please see the token for information about how to register your code.

For questions on access or troubleshooting, please check our FAQs , and if you can''t find the answer there, please contact us .

  • Oxford University Press

PRINTED FROM OXFORD REFERENCE (www.oxfordreference.com). (c) Copyright Oxford University Press, 2023. All Rights Reserved. Under the terms of the licence agreement, an individual user may print out a PDF of a single entry from a reference work in OR for personal use (for details see Privacy Policy and Legal Notice ).

date: 25 February 2024

  • Cookie Policy
  • Privacy Policy
  • Legal Notice
  • Accessibility
  • [66.249.64.20|81.177.182.136]
  • 81.177.182.136

Character limit 500 /500

speech is silver, silence is golden

  • 1.1 Alternative forms
  • 1.2.1 Related terms
  • 1.2.2 Translations

English [ edit ]

Alternative forms [ edit ].

  • speech is silver, but silence is golden
  • speech is silver, silence is gold

Proverb [ edit ]

speech is silver , silence is golden

  • ( idiomatic ) Not saying anything is often better than speaking too much or saying something inappropriate.

Related terms [ edit ]

  • silver tongue
  • golden silence

Translations [ edit ]

speech is silver meaning

  • English lemmas
  • English proverbs
  • English multiword terms
  • English idioms

Navigation menu

Speech is silver, silence is golden

Page from the 1901 edition of Thomas Carlyle's Sartor Resartus (1833-34) on which the proverb appears, marking its earliest usage in English. Sartor resartus; and, On heroes, hero-worship and the heroic in history.djvu

" Speech is silver, silence is golden " is a proverb extolling the value of silence over speech . Its modern form most likely originated in Arabic culture , where it was used as early as the 9th century.

Origins and spread

"Speech is silver, silence is golden" has been described as "perhaps the best known of the proverbs concerned with silence". [1] :   239   Similar proverbs in English include "Still waters run deep" and "Empty vessels make the most sound." [2]

There have been like proverbs in other languages, for example the Talmudic [1] :   241   proverb in the Aramaic language , "if a word be worth one shekel , silence is worth two", which was translated into English in the 17th century. Praise of silence can also be found in much older works, including the Bible , for example, "In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin, but he that refraineth his lips is wise." ( Proverbs , 10:19). [1] :   239–240  

In 1932 Richard Jente described the "silver"–and–"gold" proverb as being "of Eastern origin". [3] In 1999 David J. Wasserstein remarked that the "Eastern origin" mentioned by a number of earlier writers was most likely the Aramaic "shekels" proverb, as it connects speech, silence, and monetary value. [1] :   241   Wasserstein argued, however, that the Aramaic "shekels" proverb – which had been already published in English by John Ray in a 1678 Collection of English Proverbs – was related, perhaps sharing the same ancient origin, but differed from the version in European culture that uses the terms "silver" and "gold". [1] :   240–241   Wasserstein traced the latter version to Arabic culture , observing that it had been widely used in Arabic for centuries, having been recorded in the writings of the 11th-century Muslim scholar Al-Raghib al-Isfahani and the 9th-century writer Al-Jahiz (the latter wrote that, "if speech were of silver, then silence would be of gold"). [1] :   244–247   The "silver"–and–"gold" proverb was also known in Islamic Spain , where it was recorded in the 11th century by Ibn Hayyan of Cordoba . [1] :   254  

In some Arabic works the proverb has been attributed to King Solomon , but Wasserstein writes that there is no verifiable evidence for such an origin, as no ancient Jewish version of the proverb using the terms "silver" and "gold" has been found. He also notes that some other Arabic works, again with no verifiable evidence, have attributed the "silver"–and–"gold" proverb to Luqman the Wise , and Wasserstein concludes that the real origin is likely lost to history, while the oldest surviving sources have simply attributed the proverb to "wise men of old". [1] :   247–248  

According to Wasserstein, the proverb, in its "silver"–and–"gold" version, most likely entered Western culture through the work of a 14th-century Spanish Jew , Santob de Carrion , also known as Shem Tob ben Isaac Ardutiel, a Hebrew writer and translator of Arabic texts; and over the next centuries came to be used in Spanish and eventually also in other European languages. [1] :   257–258  

According to Jente, the proverb became popular in Germany in the early 19th century, then spread to the English language, possibly through German immigrants in the United States . [3] Wasserstein writes that its first recorded use in English was the novel Sartor Resartus (1833–34) by Thomas Carlyle , who for reasons unknown attributed it to a " Swiss inscription". [1] :   239   A similar saying, however, "discourse is silver, silence is gold", and attributed as a "Greek proverb", was printed in English as early as 1818 in a collection that reprinted material from the Researches in Greece (1814) of William Martin Leake . [4]

The proverb's origins and history of its earliest English-language appearances were already of interest to the English public by the second half of the 19th century, when the matter was discussed in a series of exchanges in the literary journal, Notes and Queries , in which several contributors commented on the question in the context of Carlyle's book. [1] :   242  

Related Research Articles

The Book of Proverbs is a book in the third section of the Hebrew Bible and a book of the Christian Old Testament. When translated into Greek and Latin, the title took on different forms: in the Greek Septuagint (LXX) it became Παροιμίαι ; in the Latin Vulgate the title was Proverbia , from which the English name is derived.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Proverb</span> Short traditional saying that expresses a perceived truth

A proverb is a simple, traditional saying that expresses a perceived truth based on common sense or experience. Proverbs are often metaphorical and use formulaic language. A proverbial phrase or a proverbial expression is a type of a conventional saying similar to proverbs and transmitted by oral tradition. The difference is that a proverb is a fixed expression, while a proverbial phrase permits alterations to fit the grammar of the context. Collectively, they form a genre of folklore.

Spanish proverbs are a subset of proverbs that are used in Western cultures in general; there are many that have essentially the same form and content as their counterparts in other Western languages. Proverbs that have their origin in Spanish have migrated to and from English, French, Flemish, German and other languages.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Polish proverbs</span> Adages in the Polish language

Tens of thousands of Polish proverbs exist; many have origins in the Middle Ages. The oldest known Polish proverb dates to 1407. A number of scholarly studies of Polish proverbs (paremiology) exist; and Polish proverbs have been collected in numerous dictionaries and similar works from the 17th century onward. Studies in Polish paremiology have begun in the 19th century. The largest and most reputable collection of Polish proverbs to date, edited by Julian Krzyżanowski, was published in 1970s.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Shekel</span> Ancient unit of currency

Shekel or sheqel is an ancient Mesopotamian coin, usually of silver. A shekel was first a unit of weight—very roughly 11 grams —and became currency in ancient Tyre and ancient Carthage and then in ancient Israel under the Maccabees.

A literary language is the form (register) of a language used in its literary writing. It can be either a nonstandard dialect or a standardized variety of the language. It can sometimes differ noticeably from the various spoken lects, but the difference between literary and non-literary forms is greater in some languages than in others. If there is a strong divergence between a written form and the spoken vernacular, the language is said to exhibit diglossia.

<i>Alphabet of Sirach</i>

The Alphabet of Sirach is an anonymous text of the Middle Ages inspired by the Book of Sirach and written in a Muslim country between 700 and 1000. It is a compilation of two lists of proverbs, 22 in Jewish Babylonian Aramaic and 22 in Medieval Hebrew, both arranged as alphabetic acrostics. Each proverb is followed by an aggadic commentary. Adolf Neubauer and Abraham Epstein argued for a satirical character, which reading was rejected by Louis Ginzberg.

The mina is an ancient Near Eastern unit of weight, roughly equivalent to a pound, which was divided into 60 shekels. The mina, like the shekel, was also a unit of currency.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Three wise monkeys</span> Pictorial maxim, embodying "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil"

The three wise monkeys are a Japanese pictorial maxim, embodying the proverbial principle " see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil ". The three monkeys are

Phoenicianism is a form of Lebanese nationalism adopted by a section of Lebanese people, at the time of the creation of Greater Lebanon. It constitutes identification of the Lebanese people with the ancient Phoenicians.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Silver spoon</span> Idiom

The English language expression silver spoon is synonymous with wealth, especially inherited wealth; someone born into a wealthy family is said to have "been born with a silver spoon in their mouth". As an adjective, "silver spoon" describes someone who has a prosperous background or is of a well-to-do family environment, often with the connotation that the person does not fully realize or appreciate the value of their advantage, its having been inherited rather than earned.

Many Chinese proverbs exist, some of which have entered English in forms that are of varying degrees of faithfulness. A notable example is "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step", from the Dao De Jing , ascribed to Laozi. They cover all aspects of life, and are widely used in everyday speech, in contrast to the decline of the use of proverbs in Western cultures. The majority are distinct from high literary forms such as xiehouyu and chengyu, and are common sayings of usually anonymous authorship, originating through "little tradition" rather than "great tradition".

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Anti-proverb</span> Transformation of a standard proverb for humorous effect

An anti-proverb or a perverb is the transformation of a standard proverb for humorous effect. Paremiologist Wolfgang Mieder defines them as "parodied, twisted, or fractured proverbs that reveal humorous or satirical speech play with traditional proverbial wisdom". Anti-proverbs are ancient, Aristophanes having used one in his play Peace , substituting κώẟων "bell" for κύων "bitch, female dog", twisting the standard and familiar "The hasty bitch gives birth to blind" to "The hasty bellfinch gives birth to blind".

Paremiology is the collection and study of paroemias (proverbs). It is a subfield of both philology and linguistics.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Afghan proverbs</span>

Across Afghanistan, proverbs are a valued part of speaking, both publicly and in conversations. Afghans "use proverbs in their daily conversations far more than Westerners do, and with greater effect". The most extensive proverb collections in Afghan languages are in Pashto and Dari, the two official languages in Afghanistan.

Physician, heal thyself , sometimes quoted in the Latin form, Medice, cura te ipsum , is an ancient proverb appearing in Luke 4:23. There, Jesus is quoted as saying, "Ye will surely say unto me this proverb, 'Physician, heal thyself': whatsoever we have heard done in Capernaum, do also here in thy country." Commentators have pointed out the echo of similar skepticism in the taunts that Jesus would ultimately hear while hanging on the cross: "He saved others; himself he cannot save". The shortened Latin form of the proverb, Medice, cura te ipsum , was made famous through the Latin translation of the Bible, the Vulgate, and so gained currency across Europe.

Shem Tov ben Isaac Ardutiel a 14th-century Spanish Jew, Hebrew writer and a translator of Arabic texts. His best known works include Proverbios morales .

<i>Proverbia Grecorum</i>

The Proverbia Grecorum is an anonymous Latin collection of proverbs compiled in the seventh or eighth century AD in the British Isles, probably in Ireland. Despite the name, it has no known Greek source. It was perhaps designed as a secular complement to the Hebrew Bible's Book of Proverbs .

  • ↑ Charteris-Black, Jonathan (1995). "Still Waters Run Deep' Proverbs about Speech and Silence A Cross-Linguistic Perspective" . De Proverbio . 1 (2).
  • 1 2 Jente, Richard (1932). "The American Proverb". American Speech . 7 (5): 342–348. doi : 10.2307/452956 . ISSN   0003-1283 . JSTOR   452956 .
  • ↑ The Classical Journal . A. J. Valpy. 1818. p.   40.

Silence is Golden - Meaning, Origin and Usage

Are you looking for a way to tell someone to be quiet? If so, you could use the proverbial saying, " silence is golden ." This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this phrase.

The proverbial saying "silence is golden" means that we all need to appreciate silence, and it pays dividends to keep quiet from time to time. The phrase places importance on the value of silence and its role in our lives. The saying can imply that it's better to say nothing at all than open your mouth in some situations.

The phrase implies that "silence is a virtue," and we should all enjoy the peace and quiet we get in our lives because it doesn't come along very often. You can use "silence is golden" in social and professional situations with family members, friends, and colleagues.

Example Usage

"Gosh, Timmy didn't your mother ever teach your silence is golden . Be quiet and eat your lunch."

"You know what they say; silence is golden . This time here out on the lake is so still and peaceful."

"Stop talking, Tarryn. Silence is golden , and you're interrupting a moment here."

"Ann asked me if her dress made her look fat. I told her that it looked a little tight, and she went crazy on me. Sometimes, it's better to realize silence is golden ."

"I didn't realize silence is golden until I moved to the noisy city."

"I confronted Maggie about the problem, and she said nothing. Her silence is golden , and I'm sure she gets the picture now."

speech is silver meaning

The origin of the proverbial phrase, " silence is golden ," comes from Ancient Egypt. Language experts are unsure of the exact origin of the saying, but most agree that its roots in the Ancient Egyptians. The first appearance of the expression in English goes to poet Thomas Carlyle. Carlyle translated the work " Sartor Resartus " from German in 1831. In the story, a character talks about the virtues of silence.

The full idiomatic expression is " speech is silver, but silence is golden ." However, the full version of the saying never gained traction, with people preferring to use the shortened version in language.

The earlier origins of the phrase trace back to the 14th century. The author Richard Rolle of Hampole wrote the following in "The psalter" or " Psalms of David ," in 1340.

" Disciplyne of silence is goed ."

Wyclif's Bible , published in 1382 , has the saying as follows.

" Silence is maad in heuen " (Made in Heaven).

Phrases Similar to Silence is Golden

  • Peace is precious.
  • Silence is better than speech.

Phrases Opposite to Silence is Golden

  • Make some noise.
  • Rock around the clock.

What is the Correct Saying?

  • Silence is golden.

Ways People May Say Silence is Golden Incorrectly

Silence is not a visible object. The proverb means that silence is precious, and we don't get enough of it in a noisy world. So, using the saying to describe the value of silence is more valid than its color because it doesn't have any color.

Acceptable Ways to Phrase Silence is Golden

You can use " silence is golden " when you're telling someone to stop talking or making a noise. The phrase suits professional and social use, and you probably hear it all the time. At home, you could use it to tell your kids to stop making a noise and turn off the TV. At work, you could use it to tell someone to stop saying something that might get them in trouble. There are several applications for this proverb, and the saying can have proverbial or sarcastic meanings, depending on the situation .

Related posts:

  • Mums the Word - Meaning, Origin and Usage
  • One Stop Shop – Meaning, Origin and Usage
  • How to Write an Ode (with Tips & Examples)
  • Stahp - Meaning, Origin and Usage
  • Lunk Alarm - Meaning, Usage and Origin
  • Cleanliness is Next to Godliness - Meaning, Origin and Usage

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Once In A Blue Moon

 alt=

Once in a Blue Moon

Discover something new.

speech is silver meaning

Speech is Silver, Silence is Golden

Introduction

The English proverb “Speech is silver, silence is golden” has been passed down through generations, offering wisdom about the value of words and silence in human communication. This timeless saying reminds us of the power and importance of choosing when to speak and when to remain silent. In this article, we will explore the meaning behind this proverb, provide examples of its application in everyday conversations, and discuss its possible origin.

The Meaning Behind the Proverb

“Speech is silver, silence is golden” essentially conveys the idea that silence, or refraining from speaking, is often more valuable and precious than words. It suggests that there are times when saying nothing is the wisest course of action, and that silence can be a powerful tool in various situations.

This proverb implies that speech, represented by the metaphorical “silver,” can sometimes be cheap, empty, or even harmful. On the other hand, silence, likened to “gold,” is associated with wisdom, restraint, and discretion. It encourages individuals to carefully consider their words and assess the impact they may have on others or a given situation.

Examples in Conversation

  • Family Gathering: Person A: “Uncle John, when are you getting married?” Uncle John: smiles and remains silent In this scenario, Uncle John chooses not to respond to the question, recognizing that discussing his personal life at a family gathering might not be appropriate. His silence conveys his desire for privacy and his understanding of the proverb’s wisdom.
  • Business Negotiation: Person A: “We’re willing to pay $1 million for your company.” Person B: pauses and remains silent Person B’s silence in response to the offer sends a powerful message. It allows them to evaluate the proposal and gather their thoughts before making a counteroffer, using silence strategically to their advantage.
  • Conflict Resolution: Person A: “I can’t believe you did that! You always mess things up.” Person B: takes a deep breath and remains silent Person B’s choice to remain silent in the face of criticism prevents the situation from escalating further. They recognize that responding impulsively could worsen the conflict, so they opt for silence as a means of diffusing tension.

Possible Origin of the Proverb

The origin of “Speech is silver, silence is golden” is not attributed to a single source, but it has been a part of English language and literature for centuries. The proverb’s earliest known recorded use can be traced back to the 19th century. One of the earliest appearances is in Thomas Carlyle’s “The Reminiscences of Thomas Carlyle” (published in 1881), where he wrote, “Speech is of Time, Silence is of Eternity.”

While the exact origin remains uncertain, the sentiment expressed by this proverb has resonated with people across cultures and time periods. It highlights the age-old understanding that the power of words should be used judiciously, and sometimes the most profound wisdom lies in silence.

“Speech is silver, silence is golden” serves as a valuable reminder of the importance of choosing our words wisely and knowing when to remain silent. In a world where communication is abundant, this age-old proverb encourages us to embrace the virtue of silence, understanding that it can be more precious than the most eloquent speech. Whether in personal relationships, business negotiations, or conflict resolution, the wisdom of this proverb endures, guiding us to make choices that promote understanding, empathy, and thoughtful communication.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

speech is silver meaning

  • A Loveless Life is Living Death: Exploring the Meaning of an English Proverb
  • Unveiling the Intrigue: A Summary and Lessons from “Don’t Worry Darling”
  • Once You Start Getting Comfortable, You Stop Getting Better: The Paradox of Personal Growth
  • The Paradox of Comfort: Navigating the Plateau of Personal Growth
  • The Growth Paradox: Why Getting Comfortable Can Halt Your Progress
  • speech is silver, but silence is golden
  • speech is silver, silence is golden
  • Dictionary entries
  • Quote, rate & share
  • Meaning of speech is silver, but silence is golden

speech is silver, but silence is golden ( English)

  • Alternative form of speech is silver, silence is golden

This is the meaning of speech is silver, silence is golden :

speech is silver, silence is golden ( English)

Alternative forms.

  • speech is silver, silence is gold
  • Not to say anything is often better than speaking too much or saying something inappropriate.

▾  Dictionary entries

Entries where "speech is silver, but silence is golden" occurs:

speech is silver, silence is golden : speech is silver, silence is golden (English) Alternative forms speech is silver, but silence is golden speech is silver, silence is gold Proverb speech is silver, silence is golden Not…

Quote, Rate & Share

Cite this page : "speech is silver, but silence is golden" – WordSense Online Dictionary (24th February, 2024) URL: https://www.wordsense.eu/speech_is_silver,_but_silence_is_golden/

There are no notes for this entry.

▾  Next

speech is silver, silence is gold (English)

speech is silver, silence is golden (English)

speech path (English)

speech pathologist (English)

speech pathologists (English)

speech paths (English)

▾  About WordSense

▾  references.

The references include Wikipedia, Cambridge Dictionary Online, Oxford English Dictionary, Webster's Dictionary 1913 and others. Details can be found in the individual articles.

▾  License

▾  latest.

currency wars , up and left , How do you spell undersøkande?

  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to secondary menu
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

ImportantIndia.com

Indian History, Festivals, Essays, Paragraphs, Speeches.

‘Silence is Golden’ – Meaning, Latin Version and Expansion of the Idea

Category: Proverbs, Sayings, Idioms and Phrases On April 17, 2016 By Team Work

Meaning:  “Silence is Golden” is a popular proverb. It means that it is much better to remain silent, if we do not have anything important to say.

The full phrase goes” Speech is silver. Silence is Golden.” It means that it is often better to remain quiet and not say anything. One should think before uttering words.

Latin version:  The Latin version of “Silence is Golden” is “silentium est aurum”. “Silentium’ means “Silence” and “aurum” means “Gold or something made of gold”.

Expansion:  A person is silent when he prefers to keep quite, still, and abstain from speaking. Learned people speak only when they have something meaningful to say. On the other hand, people with little learning speak because they want to display their knowledge to the world. Hence,  One should speak only if he or she has good control over the subject. If you know little on a subject, then you should first gather enough information on the subject before you plan to speak.

The value of silence is great, especially when it is desirable.  You don’t need to speak every-time to create an impression. Sometimes, people leave better impressions who display the strength of character by remaining quiet and calm during challenging moments. Remember, that “words are like arrows, you can’t take them back after you let them back.”

Reasons why ‘Silence is Golden’

  • If you keep yourself quiet can calm, then you get the desired time to judge the situation.
  • Silence provides us with opportunity to look deep with our own being. If helps us manage stress, anxiety, etc.
  • Silence brings peace and calmness within us. If helps us develop sound mind and body.
  • It prevent up from giving unwanted opinion and suggestions to people who don’t want it.
  • Words are both good and bad. If we are not careful in choosing our words, we may hurt the emotions of other person.
  • History of Mughal Empire
  • Modern History of India
  • Important India
  • Indian Geography
  • Report an Article
  • Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, Cookie Policy, and Copyrights.

Gondwana University and Other Exam News

Testbook

Speech is Silver Silence is Golden Expansion of Idea – Check the Meaning, History, and Importance here!

Speech is Silver Silence is Golden Expansion of Idea: The phrase “Speech is silver, silence is golden” is a proverb that has been around for centuries. It means that sometimes it’s better to remain quiet than to speak up. In other words, silence can be more powerful than words. Expanding on this idea, we can say that there are times when it’s better to listen than to talk. When you listen, you gain knowledge, wisdom, and understanding. You learn more about the world around you and the people in it. Listening also shows respect and empathy towards others.

On the other hand, there are also times when speaking up is important. When you speak, you have the power to inspire, motivate, and educate others. You can use your words to make a positive impact on the world. However, it’s important to find a balance between speaking and listening. If you’re always talking, you may miss out on important information and perspectives. On the other hand, if you’re always silent, you may miss out on opportunities to make a difference and connect with others.

Table of Contents

Meaning of the proverb, “Speech is silver silence is golden”

The proverb “Speech is silver, silence is golden” suggests that sometimes it is better to remain quiet and not say anything rather than speaking unnecessarily or saying something that may cause harm or offense.

Testbook

In other words, while speaking is essential and valuable, silence can often be more beneficial and wise, especially in situations where words may not be enough or could even make things worse. It encourages people to choose their words carefully and think before speaking. Silence can also indicate a sense of calmness, thoughtfulness, and wisdom.

Historical roots of the proverb

The exact origin of the proverb “Speech is silver, silence is golden” is not clear, but it is believed to have roots in ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Middle Eastern cultures.

In ancient Egypt, the god Harpocrates, who was the god of silence, was often depicted with a finger held to his lips to indicate the importance of silence.

In Greek philosophy, the idea of the “golden mean,” or the balance between two extremes, was an important concept. This idea emphasized the importance of moderation in all things, including speech.

In the Middle East, there is a similar proverb that goes “He who knows does not speak, he who speaks does not know.” This proverb emphasizes the importance of knowledge and wisdom over the desire to speak.

The proverb “Speech is silver, silence is golden” became more widespread during the 19th century and is often attributed to German, French, and English cultures. It is believed to have been popularized by the writer and poet Thomas Carlyle, who used the phrase in his book “Sartor Resartus” in 1831. Since then, the proverb has been widely used in various contexts to emphasize the importance of choosing one’s words carefully and knowing when to speak and when to remain silent.

Importance of finding a balance between speaking and listening

Finding a balance between speaking and listening is crucial in many aspects of life, including communication, relationships, and personal growth. The proverb “Speech is silver, silence is golden” highlights the importance of not only knowing when to speak but also when to listen.

While speaking is important, active listening is equally important as it allows us to understand and empathize with others. When we listen, we are able to gather information, gain insights, and understand perspectives that may be different from our own. It helps in building better relationships and promoting effective communication.

However, there are times when speaking is necessary and important. It is important to communicate our thoughts, feelings, and opinions in a clear and respectful manner. It allows us to express ourselves and share our ideas with others. But it is also important to know when to stop speaking and start listening.

Thus, finding a balance between speaking and listening is key. We should learn to speak when necessary but also learn to listen actively and attentively to others. This balance can help us to communicate effectively, build stronger relationships, and promote personal growth.

Speech is Silver Silence is Golden expansion of idea in 100 Words

The proverb “Speech is silver, silence is golden” suggests that there are times when it is better to remain silent than to speak. While speech is valuable, silence can be even more valuable, especially when words may not be enough or could cause harm. It emphasizes the importance of choosing one’s words carefully, thinking before speaking, and listening actively. The proverb highlights the idea that there is great wisdom in being quiet and listening to others. It is important to find a balance between speaking and listening to communicate effectively, build stronger relationships, and promote personal growth.

Check the latest updates below-

Speech is Silver Silence is Golden expansion of idea in 200 Words

The proverb “Speech is silver, silence is golden” has a deeper meaning that suggests that silence can be more valuable than speech. It emphasizes the importance of carefully choosing one’s words and knowing when to remain quiet. It is often better to remain silent and listen to others instead of speaking impulsively or unnecessarily.

In communication, silence can convey respect, attentiveness, and thoughtfulness. It can also be a sign of wisdom, indicating that one is carefully considering what to say or how to respond. By listening actively, we can better understand others’ perspectives and develop more meaningful relationships.

The proverb also suggests that words can have consequences, and it is important to use them wisely. In some situations, speaking can make things worse, while silence can help to calm things down or diffuse tensions. Silence can also be a powerful tool for introspection, allowing one to reflect on one’s thoughts and feelings without external distractions.

In conclusion, the proverb “Speech is silver, silence is golden” encourages us to find a balance between speaking and listening. It emphasizes the importance of knowing when to speak and when to remain silent, and how to use words wisely. By doing so, we can improve our communication skills, build stronger relationships, and promote personal growth.

In conclusion, the proverb “Speech is silver, silence is golden” is a powerful reminder of the importance of finding a balance between speaking and listening. It highlights the value of remaining silent and listening actively, especially in situations where words may not be enough or could cause harm. By carefully choosing our words and knowing when to speak and when to remain silent, we can improve our communication skills, build stronger relationships, and promote personal growth. The proverb also emphasizes the idea that words can have consequences and the importance of using them wisely. Ultimately, by finding a balance between speaking and listening, we can become better communicators, gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and others, and create more meaningful connections with the world around us.

FAQs on Speech is Silver Silence is Golden expansion of idea 

The proverb suggests that sometimes it is better to remain silent than to speak. It emphasizes the importance of choosing one’s words carefully, thinking before speaking, and listening actively.

Finding a balance between speaking and listening is crucial in many aspects of life, including communication, relationships, and personal growth. By learning to speak when necessary, but also learning to listen actively and attentively to others, we can communicate effectively, build stronger relationships, and promote personal growth.

Silence can be more valuable than speech because it conveys respect, attentiveness, and thoughtfulness. It can also be a sign of wisdom, indicating that one is carefully considering what to say or how to respond. In addition, silence can help to calm things down or diffuse tensions in certain situations.

The exact origin of the proverb is not clear, but it is believed to have roots in ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Middle Eastern cultures. The proverb became more widespread during the 19th century and is often attributed to German, French, and English cultures.

We can use the proverb to remind ourselves to choose our words carefully, listen actively, and find a balance between speaking and listening. It can also encourage us to reflect on our communication habits and develop better communication skills.

' src=

By Gauri Malik

Related post, exploring the geographical marvels and hill stations of maharashtra, folk dances of odisha with pictures – know all the renowned dance forms here, folk dances of punjab with pictures – know all the renowned dance forms here, leave a reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Unlocking Opportunities: BSSC Inter-Level Vacancy, Salary, and Job Profile

यूपीएससी जीएस पेपर 4 पाठ्यक्रम के मुख्य पहलुओं का अनावरण, आईएएस मुख्य पाठ्यक्रम हिंदी में और यूपीएससी जीएस 3 पाठ्यक्रम हिंदी में जानें.

The Hill

Nate Silver urges Biden: Reassure voters or ‘stand down’

E lection handicapper Nate Silver, the founder of FiveThirtyEight, on Monday called on President Biden to reassure voters he is capable of running a campaign.

Otherwise, Silver said, Biden should step aside ahead of the August nominating convention and let the party select a new candidate.

“Biden needs to reassure the American public that he’s capable of handling public appearances that aren’t on easy mode. Or he needs to stand down. Or he’s probably going to lose to Trump,” Silver wrote in a post on X, formerly Twitter.

In a Substack post also published Monday, Silver sharply criticized Biden and his team for shielding the president from the media spotlight, in particular for forgoing the Super Bowl interview.

“Personally, I crossed the rubicon in November, concluding that Biden should stand down if he wasn’t going to be able to run a normal reelection campaign — meaning, things like conduct a Super Bowl interview,” Silver wrote. “Yes, it’s a huge risk and, yes, Biden can still win. But he’s losing now and there’s no plan to fix the problems other than hoping that the polls are wrong or that voters look at the race differently when they have more time to focus on it.”

Silver wrote that shielding Biden from the media leads people to conclude there is something to be concerned about. He noted that “even the most optimistic Democrats, if you read between the lines, are really arguing that Democrats could win despite Biden and not because of him.”

Concerns about Biden’s age have come to the forefront, especially following a recent special counsel report that painted Biden as a “well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory.” Voters have listed it as a top issue in polls.

Biden and his allies have criticized the report, saying special counsel Robert Hur went beyond his purview and emphasizing that the report exonerates Biden in a confidential documents investigation.

But Silver argues the campaign should address the issue head-on.

“Over the course of the next several weeks, Biden should do four lengthy sitdown interviews with ‘non-friendly’ sources,” Silver wrote, noting, “‘Non-friendly’ doesn’t mean hostile: nonpartisan reporters with a track record of asking tough questions would work great.”

“A complete recording of the interviews should be made public. The interviews ought to include a mix of different media (e.g. television and print) and journalistic perspectives,” Silver added.

“So could I, other critics and 75 percent of Americans be wrong about this? Sure. I’m wrong about a lot of things. But if we’re wrong about this, it ought to be easy to prove it,” Silver said.

Silver’s piece comes after New York Times columnist and podcaster Ezra Klein argued Democrats should convince the president not to run again and then pick a new candidate at the party convention in August — a practice, Klein noted, that used to be far more common in presidential elections.

The Hill reached out to the Biden campaign for comment.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.

Nate Silver urges Biden: Reassure voters or ‘stand down’

IMAGES

  1. Speech is Silver, Silence is Golden

    speech is silver meaning

  2. Thomas Carlyle quote: Speech is silver, silence is golden

    speech is silver meaning

  3. Ursula K. Le Guin Quote: “Speech is silver, silence is gold.”

    speech is silver meaning

  4. Speech is silver, Silence is golden |Expansion of theme |ProverbSpeech

    speech is silver meaning

  5. Charles Haddon Spurgeon Quote: “Speech is silver, but silence is golden

    speech is silver meaning

  6. Muriel Spark Quote: “It is well, when in difficulties, to say never a

    speech is silver meaning

VIDEO

  1. Speech iz silver 2024new

  2. Writing skill

COMMENTS

  1. Speech is silver, silence is golden

    " Speech is silver, silence is golden " is a proverb extolling the value of silence over speech. Its modern form most likely originated in Arabic culture, where it was used as early as the 9th century. Meaning "Speech is silver, silence is golden" has been described as "perhaps the best known of the proverbs concerned with silence".

  2. The saying 'Silence is golden'

    That fuller version - 'speech is silver; silence is golden', is still sometimes used, although the shorter form is now more common. The same thought is expressed in a 16th century proverb, now defunct - as many present-day feminists would prefer it: "Silence is a woman's best garment."

  3. speech is silver, silence is golden

    Definition of speech is silver, silence is golden in the Idioms Dictionary. speech is silver, silence is golden phrase. What does speech is silver, silence is golden expression mean? Definitions by the largest Idiom Dictionary.

  4. Speech is silver, but silence is golden

    Overview speech is silver, but silence is golden Quick Reference Proverbial saying, mid 19th century; meaning that discretion can be more valuable than the most eloquent words (see also the abbreviated form silence is golden). From: speech is silver, but silence is golden in The Oxford Dictionary of Phrase and Fable »

  5. Silence is Golden

    The meaning of this phrase is that silence needs authority of mind and a specific type of power; to keep silent is not easier than expressing anger, love, happiness, and betrayal with words. This phrase is the part of a proverb, "Speech is silver, silence is golden."

  6. speech is silver, but silence is golden

    The Oxford Dictionary of Phrase and Fable speech is silver, but silence is golden proverbial saying, mid 19th century; meaning that discretion can be more valuable than the most eloquent words (see also the abbreviated form silence is golden).

  7. silence is golden meaning, origin, example, sentence, history

    Origin The full idiom is "speech is silver, but silence is golden" meaning that words are important, but sometimes it is better to say nothing. The whole phrase is seldom used and the shortened version is now more well-known. In 1831, the poet, Thomas Carlyle, translated it from German to English in his novel Sartor Resartus.

  8. Speech is silver, silence is golden · meaning · Proverb Hunter

    Read more → A golden key opens every door The 'golden key' is money, which overcomes for its possessors all the obstacles barring the way... Read more → The meaning, explanation and origin of the proverb: Speech is silver, silence is golden.

  9. Speech is silver, silence is golden

    Speech is silver, silence is golden This page is about the saying "Speech is silver, silence is golden" Possible meaning: Speaking is good but saying nothing is better. Discretion can be worth more than even eloquent words. Quick Quiz If it's true that "speech is silver, silence is golden", then words can be a See Saying of the Day today

  10. Speech Is Silver, Silence Is Golden

    What Does "Speech Is Silver, Silence Is Golden" Mean? "Speech is silver, silence is golden" is an English idiom. It is an expression highlighting the value of remaining silent or discreet in certain situations, suggesting that speaking may be less valuable or even harmful compared to maintaining silence.

  11. Speech is silver, but silence is golden

    "speech is silver, but silence is golden" published on by Oxford University Press. proverbial saying, mid 19th century; meaning that discretion can be more valuable than the most eloquent words (see also ...

  12. speech is silver, silence is golden

    Proverb [ edit] speech is silver, silence is golden ( idiomatic) Not saying anything is often better than speaking too much or saying something inappropriate. Related terms [ edit] silver tongue golden silence Translations [ edit] ± proverb English lemmas English proverbs en:Talking

  13. Speech is silver, silence is golden

    Meaning. "Speech is silver, silence is golden" has been described as "perhaps the best known of the proverbs concerned with silence". [1] 239 Similar proverbs in English include "Still waters run deep" and "Empty vessels make the most sound." [2]

  14. Meaning, Origin and Usage

    The full idiomatic expression is "speech is silver, but silence is golden." However, the full version of the saying never gained traction, with people preferring to use the shortened version in language. The earlier origins of the phrase trace back to the 14th century.

  15. Speech is Silver, Silence is Golden

    The Meaning Behind the Proverb "Speech is silver, silence is golden" essentially conveys the idea that silence, or refraining from speaking, is often more valuable and precious than words. It suggests that there are times when saying nothing is the wisest course of action, and that silence can be a powerful tool in various situations.

  16. Speech Is Silver, Silence Is Golden Definition

    Speech Is Silver, Silence Is Golden definition: Not saying anything is often better than speaking too much or saying something inappropriate.

  17. speech is silver, silence is gold: meaning

    This is the meaning of speech is silver, silence is golden: speech is silver, silence is golden (English) Alternative forms. speech is silver, but silence is golden; speech is silver, silence is gold; Proverb speech is silver, silence is golden. Not to say anything is often better than speaking too much or saying something inappropriate.

  18. Silence is golden

    Definition of silence is golden in the Idioms Dictionary. silence is golden phrase. What does silence is golden expression mean? Definitions by the largest Idiom Dictionary.

  19. speech is silver, but silence is golden

    This is the meaning of speech is silver, silence is golden: speech is silver, silence is golden (English) Alternative forms. speech is silver, but silence is golden; speech is silver, silence is gold; Proverb speech is silver, silence is golden. Not to say anything is often better than speaking too much or saying something inappropriate.

  20. 'Silence is Golden'

    Meaning: "Silence is Golden" is a popular proverb. It means that it is much better to remain silent, if we do not have anything important to say. The full phrase goes" Speech is silver. Silence is Golden.". It means that it is often better to remain quiet and not say anything. One should think before uttering words.

  21. Speech is Silver Silence is Golden Expansion of Idea

    Speech is Silver Silence is Golden expansion of idea in 200 Words. The proverb "Speech is silver, silence is golden" has a deeper meaning that suggests that silence can be more valuable than speech. It emphasizes the importance of carefully choosing one's words and knowing when to remain quiet. It is often better to remain silent and ...

  22. speech is silver, but silence is golden

    TheFreeDictionary Google speech is silver, but silence is golden speech is silver, but silence is golden proverb An expression that values silence over speech. I would be careful around all those reporters if I were you. Remember: speech is silver, but silence is golden. See also: but, golden, silence, speech

  23. Speech Is Silver, Silence Is Gold Definition

    Proverb Filter Alternative form of speech is silver, silence is golden. Wiktionary Advertisement Find Similar Words Find similar words to speech is silver, silence is gold using the buttons below. Words Starting With SP SPE Words Ending With LD Unscrambles speech is silver, silence is gold Words Starting With S and Ending With D

  24. Nate Silver urges Biden: Reassure voters or 'stand down'

    Election handicapper Nate Silver, the founder of FiveThirtyEight, on Monday called on President Biden to reassure voters he is capable of running a campaign. Otherwise, Silver said, Biden should ...