honesty is the best policy

proverb/ˈɒnɪsti ɪz ðə bɛst ˈpɒlɪsi/ 🔊 listen

Honesty is the best policy is an English proverb meaning that telling the truth is always the wisest course of action. Even when a lie seems easier, honesty earns trust and works out better in the long run.

📖 Meanings

1telling the truth is always the wisest choice
"Just tell them what really happened — honesty is the best policy." — Just tell them what really happened — being honest is always best.
2the idea that honesty pays off over time
"He admitted his mistake; honesty is the best policy." — He admitted his mistake; honesty pays off in the end.

🔄 Related proverbs

the truth will set you free →honesty pays →tell the truth and shame the devil →

💬 Common patterns

honesty is the best policyremember, honesty is the best policythey say honesty is the best policy
❓ Which proverb says telling the truth is always the wisest choice?