a policy is a “general rule”. That is, normally it is a best rule. HOWEVER, this implies that SOMETIMES, honesty is not the best course of action in a given situation. But it remains, nonetheless ,the best policy overall.

Honest is the best policy. Is it?
a policy is a “general rule”.

That is, normally it is a best rule.

HOWEVER, this implies that SOMETIMES, honesty is not the best course of action in a given situation.

But it remains, nonetheless ,the best policy overall.
—

By way of contrast:

honesty is the best policy.

putting your desires first is the best policy.

obedience is the best policy.

efficiency is the best policy.

thoroughness is the best policy.

speed is the best policy.

group goals is the best policy.

Just a few contrasts that come to mind.

[responsivevoice_button voice="US English Male"]