la nuit est bonne conseillère

/la nɥi ɛ bɔn kɔ̃.se.jɛʁ/◆proverb

to let time pass before making a decision

Avant de prendre une décision, laisse la nuit être bonne conseillère.

Before making a decision, let time pass and think it over.

◆ What It Really Means

The idea that time and reflection can improve decision-making.

¶ Literal Meaning

The night is a good advisor.

Literal Breakdown

la nuitthe night+estis+bonnegood+conseillèreadvisor

◇ Mental Image

The night as a wise advisor, offering clarity and perspective.

◈ When to Use

A friend is about to make a rash decision, and you advise them to wait and think it over.

◉ Cultural Note

This proverb reflects the French cultural value of reflection and deliberation in decision-making.

informal

To delay making a decision to gain perspective and clarity through time and reflection.

Il était en colère, mais il a décidé de laisser la nuit être bonne conseillère avant de répondre.

He was angry, but he decided to sleep on it before replying.

This proverb emphasizes the value of patience and reflection in decision-making.

Synonyms

similar meaning, slightly more poetic

Use this phrase when advising someone to take time before making a decision.

The phrase originates from the idea that overnight reflection can bring clarity to complex situations.

This expression is commonly used to advise someone to wait before making an important decision.

Dictionnaire Français-Anglais