Explore Arabic traditional proverbsReviewed 2026-10-12
Meaning: Verified- English translation
Better the person you know than the one you do not.
- Literal wording
The one you know is better than the one you do not know.
- Meaning and lesson
Prefer a person whose qualities and faults you already understand over an unknown alternative. Familiarity allows a more realistic judgment, while the unknown may bring unwelcome surprises.
The saying recommends caution when changing companions or choosing someone to deal with. It values knowledge gained through experience, even when the familiar person is imperfect.
- When it is used
Used when someone considers replacing a known companion or associate with an unfamiliar person, especially when the known person's limitations are already understood.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: Better the person you know than the one you do not.