Meaning
Silence is sometimes wiser.
Cultural Background
Dutch people value directness, but they also value 'nuchterheid' (level-headedness). This proverb is a check on impulsive speech. Belgians are often more reserved than the Dutch. This proverb is very common in Flanders. The 'silver/gold' concept is deeply embedded in Germanic cultures. In Mediterranean cultures, silence is often seen as a sign of respect or wisdom in the face of conflict.
Practice the 'g'
The 'g' in 'zwijgen' is the most difficult sound for learners. Practice it by making a soft 'h' sound in your throat.
Directness
Dutch people are direct, but they appreciate when you know when to stop talking.
Meaning
Silence is sometimes wiser.
Practice the 'g'
The 'g' in 'zwijgen' is the most difficult sound for learners. Practice it by making a soft 'h' sound in your throat.
Directness
Dutch people are direct, but they appreciate when you know when to stop talking.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing word.
Het is beter om te ____.
The proverb is 'Het is beter om te zwijgen'.
Which sentence is grammatically correct?
Choose the correct option:
The structure 'om te' is required.
When should you use this phrase?
You are in a meeting and you don't know the answer. What do you do?
Silence is better than guessing.
Complete the dialogue.
Friend: 'I'm so mad, I want to yell at him!' You: '____'
This is the best advice to calm a friend.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesHet is beter om te ____.
The proverb is 'Het is beter om te zwijgen'.
Choose the correct option:
The structure 'om te' is required.
You are in a meeting and you don't know the answer. What do you do?
Silence is better than guessing.
Friend: 'I'm so mad, I want to yell at him!' You: '____'
This is the best advice to calm a friend.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsNo, it is a piece of advice. It is not rude unless you say it to someone who is currently speaking.
Only if you are asked for advice on communication. Otherwise, it might sound like you are telling the interviewer to be quiet.
It is a standard Dutch grammar rule for infinitive clauses.
You can just say 'Zwijgen is beter', but it sounds less natural.
Related Phrases
Spreken is zilver, zwijgen is goud
synonymSpeech is silver, silence is gold.
Hou je mond
contrastShut your mouth.
Zwijgen is een kunst
similarSilence is an art.
Luisteren is ook een vak
builds onListening is also a profession.
