QuoteProject
Silence is one of the great arts of conversation.
Marcus Tullius Cicero
ShareWTF𝕏

Interpretation

What this quote means

Silence can be a powerful element in communication that enhances understanding and connection.

This quote emphasizes the importance of silence in conversations, suggesting that listening and reflecting can be just as impactful as speaking. Cicero highlights that the art of conversation is not solely about the words exchanged, but also about the moments of silence that allow for deeper thought and insight.

Themes

SilenceConversationListeningCommunicationWisdom

In practice

Example use cases

During a meeting, using silence effectively can encourage others to speak up.

More from Marcus Tullius Cicero

Friendship is the only thing in the world concerning the usefulness of which all mankind are agreed.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
Those wars are unjust which are undertaken without provocation. For only a war waged for revenge or defence can actually be just.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
Orators are most vehement when their cause is weak.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
Nothing contributes to the entertainment of the reader more, than the change of times and the vicissitudes of fortune.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
No one has the right to be sorry for himself for a misfortune that strikes everyone.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
Advice in old age is foolish; for what can be more absurd than to increase our provisions for the road the nearer we approach to our journey's end.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead

Similar quotes

To be truly visionary we have to root our imagination in our concrete reality while simultaneously imagining possibilities beyond that reality.
Bell HooksRead
Our goal is to try to bring a calm and simplicity to what are incredibly complex problems so that you're not aware really of the solution.
Jonathan IveRead
Cherish your mistakes, and you won't keep making them over and over again. It's the same with heartbreaks and girls and everything else. Cherish them, and they'll put some wealth in you.
Quincy JonesRead
I insist on a lot of time being spent, almost every day, to just sit and think. That is very uncommon in American business. I read and think. So I do more reading and thinking, and make less impulse decisions than most people in business. I do it because I like this kind of life.
Warren BuffettRead
As you recognize that you already own the wholeness you seek, and no one outside you can give you more than you already are, dysfunctional situations will evaporate like bad dreams exposed to the morning sun.
Alan CohenRead
Forget like a child any injury done by somebody immediately. Never keep it in the heart. It kindles hatred.
SivanandaRead

A little wisdom, now and then

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