Whiteisms
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Etymology Journal ยท L

Let sleeping dogs lie

Meaning

To avoid interfering in a situation that is currently quiet because making a change might cause trouble. It is the art of leaving well enough alone.

Cautious, wise

Used in a sentence

  • The boss has finally forgotten about the error, so let sleeping dogs lie.
  • Don't bring up the argument from last Christmas, let sleeping dogs lie.
  • It is best to let sleeping dogs lie regarding the old debt.

The backstory

This idiom dates back to at least the 14th century. It describes the danger of waking a dog that might bite you if disturbed.

Heard in

Nationwide

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