Speak the truth, do not yield to anger; give, if thou art asked for little; by these three steps thou wilt go near the gods.
ConfuciusRead
On matters beyond his ken a gentleman speaks with caution. If names are not right, words are misused. When words are misused, affairs go wrong. When affairs go wrong, courtesy and music droop, law and justice fail. And when law and justice fail them, a people can move neither hand nor foot. So a gentleman must be ready to put names in speech, to put words into deeds. A gentleman is nowise careless of words.
Interpretation
What this quote means
A gentleman uses words with care, as misusing them can lead to significant consequences.
This quote by Confucius emphasizes the importance of words and their correct usage in communicating ideas appropriately. It suggests that a gentleman approaches matters with caution, recognizing that improper language can lead to misunderstandings and failures in justice and social harmony. By valuing the power of words, individuals contribute to a more orderly and respectful society.
Themes
WordsGentlemanCommunicationJusticeCautionLanguage
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in speeches about the importance of communication in leadership.
More from Confucius
All quotes →Earnest in practicing the ordinary virtues, and careful in speaking about them, if, in his practice, he has anything defective, the superior man dares not but exert himself; and if, in his words, he has any excess, he dares not allow himself such license.
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When you see a good person, think of becoming like her/him. When you see someone not so good, reflect on your own weak points.
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Never give a sword to a man who can't dance.
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The superior man is distressed by the limitations of his ability; he is not distressed by the fact that men do not recognize the ability that he has.
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Success depends upon previous preparation, and without such preparation there is sure to be failure.
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