I would not be beholden to a tyrant, for his acts of tyranny. For it is but usurpation in him to save, as their rightful lord, the lives of men over whom he has no title to reign.
Cato The YoungerRead
I will begin to speak, when I have that to say which had not better be unsaid.
Interpretation
What this quote means
One should speak thoughtfully, ensuring their words are meaningful and necessary.
This quote emphasizes the importance of considering the value of one's words before speaking. It encourages individuals to reflect on whether what they want to say adds value to the conversation, suggesting that sometimes it is better to remain silent than to share thoughts that may not contribute positively or meaningfully.
Themes
WisdomCommunicationThoughtfulnessSilenceMeaning
In practice
Example use cases
During a public speaking event to highlight the importance of thoughtful communication.
More from Cato The Younger
All quotes βSimilar quotes
Of the thousands of ways that humans differ from one another, turns out there's this one cluster of traits called conscientiousness that predict a whole host of positive life outcomes, such as longevity over our health, life satisfaction.
Daniel LevitinRead
I have had more trouble with myself than with any other man I have ever met.
Dwight L. MoodyRead
A penny saved is a penny earned.
Benjamin FranklinRead
There are no new ideas. There are only new ways of making them felt.
Audre LordeRead
I think I've got my business notions and my sense for that sort of thing from my dad. My dad never had a chance to go to school. He couldn't read and write. But he was so smart. He was just one of those people that could just make the most of anything and everything that he had to work with.
Dolly PartonRead
It is better to be looked over than overlooked.
Mae WestRead