Idiom

Let sleeping dogs lie

What does "Let sleeping dogs lie" mean?

Avoid restarting a conflict.

Britain. 19th century but much earlier as a similarly-worded proverb.

Meaning Avoid restarting a conflict.

Usage Worldwide, but like many proverbs, now considered rather old-fashioned.

Example

I knew he was stealing from me but, he is proud and he really needs the money. I preferred to let sleeping dogs lie and to say nothing.

Pronunciation