Send a wise man on an errand and say nothing to him.

A capable person can grasp what an errand requires without being given detailed instructions. The proverb praises sound judgment and initiative.

It also suggests that trust can be more useful than close supervision. Once the right person has been chosen, there may be little need to prescribe every step.

Use this proverb when someone understands a task and handles its practical details without prompting. It can also encourage a person assigning work to leave room for the other person's judgment.