[MosesKnows]

When you try to argue with a fool, that proves there are two

Proverbs 26:4
Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.

In other words, don't argue with an idiot lest folks confuse you for the idiot.

[NorthMountain]

Proverbs 26:

4 Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.

5 Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit.

Reasonable men may disagree as to which proverb is appropriate to a particular occasion.

[Hieronymus]

Proverbs 26:4
Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.

---

“Answer fools according to their folly, or they will be wise in their own eyes.”

Proverbs 26:5

[traderrob6]

Personally I’ve always preferred Mark Twain’s variation...

“Never argue with a fool, onlookers may not be able to tell the difference.”