original: a wise man avoids danger; modern: principle of self-preservation; non-committal attitude
Meanings
2 senses · 5 examplesidiom
original meaning: a wise person stays away from situations that might endanger them
literaryClassical usage, often found in historical or literary contexts to describe prudent avoidance of trouble.
As the old saying goes, 'A wise man preserves himself by withdrawing from danger.'
In times of turmoil, he chose to preserve himself by living in seclusion in the mountains.
idiom
modern meaning: to be non-committal on matters of principle to avoid making mistakes or harming one's own interests
neutralThe modern usage often carries a slightly negative or critical connotation, implying a lack of moral courage or opportunism.
Faced with the company's wrong decision, he refrained from voicing any opposition to protect his own interests.
On crucial issues, he always takes a non-committal stance to avoid taking sides.
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Although this self-preserving approach is safe, it can sometimes make one seem lacking in a sense of responsibility.