To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
He that speaks much, is much mistaken.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Talking too much often leads to misunderstandings and mistakes.
This quote by Benjamin Franklin emphasizes the idea that excessive talk can result in errors and misjudgments. It suggests that those who engage in constant speech may not only lose clarity and focus but also the truth of what they intend to communicate, leading to the realization that sometimes silence or brevity can be more valuable than verbosity.
Themes
SpeechMistakesCommunicationWisdomSilence
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about effective communication skills at a workshop.
More from Benjamin Franklin
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[E]very Man who comes among us, and takes up a piece of Land, becomes a Citizen, and by our Constitution has a Voice in Elections, and a share in the Government of the Country.
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Our Constitution is in actual operation; everything appears to promise that it will last; but in this world nothing is certain but death and taxes.
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Let honesty and industry be thy constant companions, and spend one penny less than thy clear gains; then shall thy pocket begin to thrive; creditors will not insult, nor want oppress, nor hungerness bite, nor nakedness freeze thee
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I think that a young state, like a young virgin, should modestly stay at home, and wait the application of suitors for an alliance with her; and not run about offering her amity to all the world; and hazarding their refusal. Our virgin is a jolly one; and tho at present not very rich, will in time be a great fortune, and where she has a favorable predisposition, it seems to me well worth cultivating.
Benjamin FranklinRead
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