Honesty is the best policy Meaning in English

expression

US

AH-nuh-stee iz thuh (or thee) BEST PAH-luh-see

UK

ON-iss-tee iz thuh (or thee) BEST POL-uh-see

Definition

This expression means that telling the truth and being honest is the wisest and most effective way to deal with situations.

Usage & Nuances

This is a proverb used in both formal and informal contexts to promote truthfulness. It’s often used to encourage people to be honest, even when it's difficult. Alternative expressions include 'honesty pays off.' It generally refers to behavior, not just speech.

• Spanish: la honestidad es la mejor política
• Portuguese (BR): a honestidade é o melhor caminho
• Portuguese (PT): a honestidade é o melhor caminho
• Chinese (Simplified): 诚实为上策
• Chinese (Traditional): 誠實為上策
• Hindi: ईमानदारी सबसे अच्छी नीति है
• Arabic: الصِّدق أفضل سياسة
• Bengali: সৎ হওয়াই শ্রেষ্ঠ নীতি
• Russian: честность — лучшая политика
• Japanese: 正直は最良の策
• Vietnamese: thành thật là chính sách tốt nhất
• Korean: 정직이 최선의 방책이다
• Turkish: doğruluk en iyi politikadır
• Urdu: ایمانداری ہی سب سے بہترین پالیسی ہے
• Indonesian: kejujuran adalah kebijakan terbaik

Example Sentences

My parents always say 'honesty is the best policy.'

basic

I learned that 'honesty is the best policy' after telling the truth at school.

basic

Teachers remind us that 'honesty is the best policy' in exams.

basic

I know it wasn't easy, but remember, 'honesty is the best policy.'

natural

Whenever I'm not sure what to do, I think, 'honesty is the best policy.'

natural

He could have lied, but he believes that 'honesty is the best policy.'

natural