Proverbs 17:14

English Standard Version

14 The beginning of strife is like letting out water, so quit before the quarrel breaks out. (Pr 20:3; Pr 25:8) 

New International Version

14 Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out. 

New International Reader’s Version

14 Starting to argue is like making a crack in a dam. So drop the matter before a fight breaks out. 

King James Version

14 The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with. 

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