4 Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you yourself will be just like him.
4 Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.
4 Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest you be like him yourself.
4 Don't respond to the stupidity of a fool; you'll only look foolish yourself.
4 Do not answer a fool according to his folly, Lest you also be like him.
4 Don't answer the foolish arguments of fools, or you will become as foolish as they are.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 26:4
Commentary on Proverbs 26:4-5
(Read Proverbs 26:4-5)
We are to fit our remarks to the man, and address them to his conscience, so as may best end the debate.