# uses few words

This refers to the way he speaks. AT: "speaks with few words" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

# Even a fool is thought to be wise

This can be written in active form. AT: "People even think a fool is wise" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

# keeps his mouth shut

This means that he does not speak. AT: "does not speak" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

# he is considered to be intelligent

This can be written in active form. AT: "people consider him to be intelligent" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])