proverb · Source-linked selection
The word of honour of a gentleman—another pledge would be better.
The word of honour of a gentleman—another pledge would be better.
In print by 1857 AD · industrial
Recorded in a printed collection by this date; the original date of these words is still unknown.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
A claim of honour may not be enough when a commitment carries real consequences. Seek a concrete, appropriate assurance rather than relying entirely on status or self-description.
What the words are saying
The speaker treats a gentleman’s word as a weaker pledge than another form of assurance. The contrast questions a social title used as proof of reliability. In practical decisions, clear terms, a record or another suitable safeguard may protect both parties better than a claim to personal honour. The saying is not evidence that members of a particular class are dishonest. Its useful challenge is to ask what supports the promise when the title and confident manner are set aside.
Everyday example
Before lending valuable equipment, a club records who has it, the return date and agreed conditions even when the borrower stresses their reputation.
When to use it
Use it when a status claim substitutes for a clear commitment.
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What it does not mean
The assurance should be proportionate. Do not demand excessive proof for every small act of ordinary trust.
Agent-assisted editorial interpretation. This explains the words; it does not by itself verify their author or earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional (French-language collection)
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- In print by 1857 AD · industrial
In print by 1857: recorded in A Polyglot of Foreign Proverbs (1857). Collection publication is an upper bound for this wording, not its earliest origin, composition date or the author's lifetime.
An author lifetime, approximate period or collection date is not necessarily the date when these words were first written or spoken. - Recorded source
- A Polyglot of Foreign Proverbs (1857) (1857 AD)
Printed page 18; French section, paragraph 371; source wording: Foi de gentilhomme, un autre gage vaut mieux.
A collection's publication date can be later than the words it records.