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Region: UK / US | Usage example: We decided to let sleeping dogs lie rather than revisit last year's disagreements.

Let sleeping dogs lie

Meaning

Do not disturb a situation that is currently calm, even if there is a conflict beneath the surface.

Usage

Advises people to avoid reigniting old arguments.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Rooted in the idea that awakening a sleeping dog might stir trouble.

Recorded in 16th-century English proverbs; still used in advice columns and mediations.

Related Idioms

Raining cats and dogs

Raining very heavily.

Sleeping on the job

Failing to perform duties due to laziness or distraction.

Once in a blue moon

Very rarely.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.