# be the bigger man

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/be-the-bigger-man
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To walk away from a conflict to prevent it from escalating.

## Examples

- Just be the bigger man and walk away from the argument.
- Even though he insulted you, you should be the bigger man and ignore his rude comments.
- By choosing to be the bigger man and refusing to retaliate, she effectively ended the long-standing feud between the two families.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.