Let Sleeping Dogs Lie – Meaning and Examples
Have you ever thought about bringing up an old argument, a past mistake, or a sensitive topic—but decided it was better to leave it alone? In English, we say it’s best to let sleeping dogs lie! This thoughtful idiom means you should avoid restarting a problem or conflict that’s currently quiet or resolved.
What Does “Let Sleeping Dogs Lie” Mean?
“Let sleeping dogs lie” means don’t bring up old issues, reopen past arguments, or interfere in a situation that’s currently calm. Think of it like this: if a dog is sleeping peacefully, why wake it up and risk getting bitten? The phrase isn’t about real dogs—it’s a wise warning to leave well enough alone.
When to Use It
Use this phrase in casual or thoughtful conversations with friends, family, or coworkers when advising someone (or yourself) not to revisit a sensitive or settled matter. It’s common when talking about past relationships, workplace drama, family disagreements, or old mistakes. This idiom is informal but carries a tone of wisdom—great for everyday advice, not formal writing.
Example Sentences
- They haven’t argued in months—let sleeping dogs lie.
- I know you’re tempted to mention the party incident, but let sleeping dogs lie.
- He brought up that old rumor again… I wish he’d just let sleeping dogs lie.
- Sometimes the smartest thing to do is let sleeping dogs lie.
Mini Dialogue
Alex: “Should I tell her I saw her ex at the café?”
Jamie: “No way! They’ve moved on. Let sleeping dogs lie.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t use this phrase to describe ignoring serious or ongoing problems—like abuse, safety issues, or active conflicts. It only applies to *past* issues that are truly quiet now.
❌ Don’t say: “The server keeps crashing, but let sleeping dogs lie.” (That’s an active problem!)
✅ Do say: “They apologized last year and haven’t mentioned it since—let sleeping dogs lie.”
Practice Tip
Next time you feel tempted to bring up an old disagreement that’s been resolved, pause and say to yourself: “Better to let sleeping dogs lie.” It’s a wise habit—and great English practice!
Final Note
Now you can use “let sleeping dogs lie” to show wisdom and emotional maturity in English! It’s a calm, thoughtful phrase that helps keep peace in relationships. Keep using it—and remember, sometimes the best action is no action at all.