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A word once let out of the cage cannot be whistled back again.
Horace
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Once something is said, it cannot be taken back.

This quote by Horace emphasizes the permanence of our words and the importance of being mindful about what we say. It serves as a reminder that once a statement is made, it can have lasting effects and cannot be retracted, thus highlighting the need for careful communication and consideration of the impact our words can have on others.

Themes

WordsCommunicationPermanenceImpactCaution

In practice

Example use cases

During a team meeting when discussing the importance of constructive feedback.

More from Horace

Only a stomach that rarely feels hungry scorns common things.
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It is of no consequence of what parents a man is born, as long as he be a man of merit.
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It is not the rich man you should properly call happy, _x000D_ but him who knows how to use with wisdom the blessings of the gods, _x000D_ to endure hard poverty, and who fears dishonor worse than death, _x000D_ and is not afraid to die for cherished friends or fatherland.
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Few cross the river of time and are able to reach non-being. Most of them run up and down only on this side of the river. But those who when they know the law follow the path of the law, they shall reach the other shore and go beyond the realm of death.
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Quote by Horace | QuoteProject