NASB 1995
The beginning of strife is like letting out water, So abandon the quarrel before it breaks out.

American Standard Version
The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: Therefore leave off contention, before there is quarrelling.

Berean Study Bible
To start a quarrel is to release a flood; so abandon the dispute before it breaks out.

Douay-Rheims Bible
The beginning of quarrels is as when one letteth out water: before he suffereth reproach he forsaketh judgment.

English Revised Version
The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before there be quarrelling.

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

World English Bible
The beginning of strife is like breaching a dam, therefore stop contention before quarreling breaks out.

Young's Literal Translation
The beginning of contention is a letting out of waters, And before it is meddled with leave the strife.

Proverbs 17:14 Additional Translations ...