Acquaintance. A person whom we know well enough to borrow from, but not well enough to lend to.
Interpretation
This quote humorously highlights the superficial nature of some social connections.
Ambrose Bierce's quote on acquaintance sheds light on the interesting and often transactional nature of some human relationships. It suggests that while we may have a familiarity with certain individuals—enough to comfortably request favors or resources—we may still lack the depth of trust and mutual engagement that characterizes more meaningful friendships. This irony emphasizes how some connections are more about convenience than genuine companionship.
In practice
During a speech on social networking, one might use this quote to illustrate the difference between acquaintances and true friends.
PALM, n. A species of tree . . . of which the familiar "itching palm" ("Palma hominis") is most widely distributed . . . . This noble vegetable exudes a kind of invisible gum, which may be detected by applying to the bark a piece of gold or silver.
Human nature is pretty well balanced; for every lacking virtue there is a rough substitute that will serve at a pinch--as cunning is the wisdom of the unwise, and ferocity the courage of the coward.
Indigestion: A disease which the patient and his friends frequently mistake for deep religious conviction and concern for the salvation of mankind. As the simple Red Man of the Western Wild put it, with, it must be confessed, a certain force: 'Plenty well, no pray; big belly ache, heap God.'
Disobey n:To celebrate with an appropriate ceremony the maturity of a command
NOUMENON, n. That which exists, as distinguished from that which merely seems to exist, the latter being a phenomenon. The noumenon is a bit difficult to locate; it can be apprehended only by a process of reasoning - which is a phenomenon.
PARDON, v. To remit a penalty and restore to the life of crime. To add to the lure of crime the temptation of ingratitude.
The curse of marriage_x000D_ _x000D_ That we can call these delicate creatures ours_x000D_ _x000D_ And not their appetites!
That first year I was doing 'Grey's,' I didn't know it was possible to fire the creator of a show off their own show, so I didn't behave like somebody who was afraid of being fired.
It makes my heart sick when I remember all the good words and the broken promises.
The most important value I've taught my children is respect for every creed, colour or race. When we bleed, we bleed the same blood. I've always taught my kids never to look down on anyone or to not have anyone look down on them.
I had been alone more than I could have been had I gone by myself.
Christ assigns as a duty to every man the dignity of every woman: and simultaneously... He also assigns to every woman the dignity of every man.
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