QuoteProject
Clever talk can confound the workings of virtue, just as small impatiences can confound great projects.
Confucius
ShareWTF𝕏

Interpretation

What this quote means

Clever words can mislead good intentions, while minor frustrations can derail significant plans.

This quote by Confucius emphasizes the power of communication and the importance of patience in achieving meaningful goals. It suggests that while cleverness can sometimes mask true intentions or values, minor setbacks can disrupt larger ambitions if not managed wisely.

Themes

CommunicationPatienceIntentionProjectsVirtueSetbacks

In practice

Example use cases

In a speech about leadership, one might use this quote to highlight the need for clarity in communication.

More from Confucius

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
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.
ConfuciusRead
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.
ConfuciusRead
Never give a sword to a man who can't dance.
ConfuciusRead
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.
ConfuciusRead
Success depends upon previous preparation, and without such preparation there is sure to be failure.
ConfuciusRead

Similar quotes

Run my dear,_x000D_ From anything_x000D_ That may not strengthen_x000D_ Your precious budding wings.
HafezRead
Spiritual maturity is not reached by the passing of the years, but by obedience to the will of God. Some people mature into an understanding of God’s will more quickly than others because they obey more readily; they more readily sacrifice the life of nature to the will of God.
Oswald ChambersRead
Immature strategy is the cause of grief.
Miyamoto MusashiRead
If a man would reap praise, you must sow the seeds, gentle words and useful deeds.
Benjamin FranklinRead
We necessarily operate in an environment in which there's a great deal of uncertainty. In such an environment, it makes sense to use a risk-management approach to identify and avoid the big mistakes. That's one reason I favor a cautious approach.
Janet YellenRead
It's up to you how you waste your time and money. I'm staying here to read: life's too short.
Carlos Ruiz ZafonRead

A little wisdom, now and then

Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.