Saturday, December 11, 2021

"Let sleeping dogs lie"

My dog Bella. When she's sleeping, I just let her lie.

Click to see Vol. I, Issue 7 of the newsletter in which this article first appeared.

Proverb: Let sleeping dogs lie.

Meaning: If a matter is settled, there's no need to bring it up again.

  • Numerous sayings make the same point: "Let bygones be bygones," "Leave well enough alone," etc. the Romans said, Quieta non movere ("Don't move things that are quiet") and many others.

Mini-Dialogue: Sam sees his friend Dave looking a little low.

Sam: Hey, Dave. What's wrong?
Dave: Oh, my girlfriend and I had a fight last week. I think she smokes too much! The argument's over, but the smoking still bothers me.
Sam: Are you willing to break up with her over it?
Dave: Well, not really. She's a great person!
Sam: Then maybe you should just let sleeping dogs lie.
Dave: Yeah, you may be right.


QUESTION:

  1. In which situation would you use the proverb, "Let sleeping dogs lie"? The correct answer is in the first comment below.
    A. Your boss scolded you last week; you want to go to him and explain yourself.
    B. Your friend wants to start a rock and roll band, and asks you to join.
    C. Your brother broke his friend's bike and offers to pay for it.

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