KJV - If the iron be blunt, and he do not whet the edge, then must he put to more strength: but wisdom is profitable to direct.

ASV - If the iron be blunt, and one do not whet the edge, then must he put to more strength: but wisdom is profitable to direct.

BBE - If the iron has no edge, and he does not make it sharp, then he has to put out more strength; but wisdom makes things go well.

WEB - If the axe is blunt, and one doesn't sharpen the edge, then he must use more strength; but skill brings success.

YLT - If the iron hath been blunt, And he the face hath not sharpened, Then doth he increase strength, And wisdom `is' advantageous to make right.

Notes