The pen is mightier than the sword in many arguments.
the pen is mightier than the sword
idiomMore influence and power can be usurped by writing than by fighting.
Origin
first recorded 19th c.This phrasing due to Bulwer-Lytton, 1839. The sentiment is traditional, and has many antecedents; see Wikipedia.
The journalist exposed the corruption through her articles, proving once again that the pen is mightier than the sword.
History shows that while armies may conquer land, the pen is mightier than the sword when it comes to changing the hearts and minds of a nation.
- 01
fall on one's sword
To resign from a job or other position of responsibility, especially when pressured to do so.
- 02
flesh one's maiden sword
To experience or succeed in combat or struggle for the first time, as in the military or in politics.
- 03
pen picture
A written description, often biographical.
- 04
poison pen
A manner, means, or tone of expression had by a written work, characterized by spitefulness, defamation, and/or intimidation directed toward a person, organization, or point of view.
- 05
put pen to paper
To write something (especially using pen and ink).
- 06
put to the sword
To execute, especially by using a sword.
- 07
sheathe the sword
To end a battle; to make peace.
- 08
slip of the pen
A mistake in handwriting; (loosely) any minor error by the writer that made it into print, having not been caught by editors or proofreaders.