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Rashness belongs to youth; prudence to old age.
Marcus Tullius Cicero
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Youth is often characterized by impulsiveness, while older age brings caution and careful consideration.

This quote by Cicero highlights the contrast between the impulsive nature of youth and the carefully measured approach that often comes with age. It suggests that as individuals grow older, they tend to become more prudent and thoughtful, acknowledging the importance of careful decision-making gained through life experiences. The observation serves as a reminder of the inherent qualities associated with different stages of life and encourages a reflection on personal growth and the acquisition of wisdom.

Themes

YouthAgeWisdomPrudenceImpulsiveness

In practice

Example use cases

During a school graduation speech, to emphasize the importance of thinking carefully before acting upon youthful impulses.

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A little wisdom, now and then

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