Signification
Ignorance can sometimes protect one from worry or distress.
Contexte culturel
This proverb is often used by parents to avoid answering difficult questions from children, reinforcing a boundary between adult knowledge and childhood innocence. In Austria, the phrase is sometimes used with a more cynical tone regarding bureaucracy—if the authorities don't know about a minor infraction, they won't bother you. Similar to Germany, but often delivered with a shrug to indicate that one is staying out of other people's business (neutrality).
Use it for Gossip
This is the #1 most natural way to use this phrase. It shuts down unwanted drama instantly.
Don't use with Bosses
If your boss asks if you know about a project error, saying this will make you look irresponsible.
Signification
Ignorance can sometimes protect one from worry or distress.
Use it for Gossip
This is the #1 most natural way to use this phrase. It shuts down unwanted drama instantly.
Don't use with Bosses
If your boss asks if you know about a project error, saying this will make you look irresponsible.
Teste-toi
Complete the proverb.
Was man nicht weiß, macht einen nicht _______.
The proverb rhymes 'weiß' with 'heiß'.
Which situation fits the proverb?
You accidentally saw your birthday present early.
The proverb only applies if you *don't* know.
What is the meaning of 'heiß machen' in this proverb?
Does it mean...
In this context, it refers to emotional agitation.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Soll ich dir das Geheimnis verraten?' B: 'Nein, _________________.'
This is the natural response to refusing a secret.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
When to use this phrase
Good Situations
- • Gossip
- • Surprise gifts
- • Minor mistakes
Bad Situations
- • Medical news
- • Legal issues
- • Safety warnings
Banque d exercices
4 exercicesWas man nicht weiß, macht einen nicht _______.
The proverb rhymes 'weiß' with 'heiß'.
You accidentally saw your birthday present early.
The proverb only applies if you *don't* know.
Does it mean...
In this context, it refers to emotional agitation.
A: 'Soll ich dir das Geheimnis verraten?' B: 'Nein, _________________.'
This is the natural response to refusing a secret.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
4 questionsBoth are correct. 'Einen' is the general proverb form (one), while 'mich' makes it personal (me).
It can be slightly dismissive, but usually, it's seen as a lighthearted way to avoid stress.
Only if you are writing about idioms or folk wisdom. It's too informal for academic writing.
It means 'excited' or 'agitated'. Think of your blood pressure rising when you get bad news.
Expressions liées
Ignoranz ist ein Segen
synonymIgnorance is a blessing.
Den Kopf in den Sand stecken
similarTo bury one's head in the sand.
Wissen ist Macht
contrastKnowledge is power.
