Proverbs 16:21

The one who is wise in heart ¹  is called ²  discerning, and kind speech ³  increases persuasiveness. ⁴ 

The wise in heart are called discerning, and pleasant words promote instruction.

The wise in heart will be called understanding, And sweetness of speech increases persuasiveness.

The wise are known for their understanding, and instruction is appreciated if it’s well presented.

A wise person gets known for insight; gracious words add to one's reputation.

The wise-hearted will be named men of good sense: and by pleasing words learning is increased.

The wise of heart is called perceptive, and pleasant speech increases persuasiveness.

The wise in heart will be called prudent, And sweetness of the lips increases learning.

The one who is wise in heart ¹  is called ²  discerning, and kind speech ³  increases persuasiveness. ⁴ 

¹ tn Heb “wise of heart” (so NRSV).

² tn Heb “to the wise of heart it will be called discerning.” This means that the wise of heart, those who make wise decisions (“heart” being the metonymy), will gain a reputation of being the discerning ones.

³ tn Heb “sweetness of lips.” The term “lips” is a metonymy of cause, meaning what is said. It is a genitive of specification. The idea of “sweetness” must be gracious and friendly words. The teaching will be well-received because it is both delightful and persuasive (cf. NIV “pleasant words promote instruction”).

⁴ tn Heb “teaching” or “receptivity”; KJV “learning”; NIV “instruction.”