the pen is mightier than the sword

1.
WorldwideBritish EnglishAmerican Englishneutralformalproverbial
- Written words, ideas, or communication have greater influence or longer-lasting effect than direct physical force or violence.
- Persuasion, argument, or public opinion is more powerful than coercion or military power.
2.
Worldwideinformalironiccliché
- Used ironically to acknowledge that writing or speech can sometimes fail to prevent or halt violence and that physical force may still be necessary.
- Used wryly or humorously to assert the value of writing or communication while admitting practical limitations.

Examples: