QuoteProject
'Tis not enough your counsel still be true; Blunt truths more mischief than nice falsehoods do.
Alexander Pope
ShareWTF𝕏

Interpretation

What this quote means

Sometimes, being overly honest can do more harm than a gentle lie.

This quote by Alexander Pope suggests that while honesty is important, the manner in which we convey the truth can greatly affect its impact. A harsh truth can lead to more harm than a well-intended falsehood, highlighting the need for tact and diplomacy in communication.

Themes

TruthHonestyCommunicationWisdomTact

In practice

Example use cases

In a team meeting discussing performance reviews, you might say this quote to emphasize the need for thoughtful feedback.

More from Alexander Pope

Do good by stealth, and blush to find it fame.
Alexander PopeRead
What dire offence from am'rous causes springs, What mighty contests rise from trivial things.
Alexander PopeRead
Fair tresses man's imperial race ensnare; And beauty draws us with a single hair.
Alexander PopeRead
An honest man's the noblest work of God.
Alexander PopeRead
One thought of thee puts all the pomp to flight;_x000D_ _x000D_ Priests, tapers, temples, swim before my sight.
Alexander PopeRead
Who breaks a butterfly on a wheel?
Alexander PopeRead

Similar quotes

Laughter is timeless. Imagination has no age. And dreams are forever.
Walt DisneyRead
Good actions are a guard against the blows of adversity.
Abu BakrRead
I have been trying to point out that in our lives chance may have an astonishing influence and, if I may offer advice to the young laboratory worker, it would be this-never neglect an extraordinary appearance or happening. It may be-usually is, in fact-a false alarm that leads to nothing, but may on the other hand be the clue provided by fate to lead you to some important advance.
Alexander FlemingRead
The first beneficiary of compassion is always oneself. When compassion, or warmheartedness, arises in us and our focus shifts away from our own narrow self-interest, it is as if we open an inner door. It reduces fear, boosts confidence and brings us inner strength. By reducing distrust, it opens us to others and brings us a sense of connection to others, and sense of purpose and meaning in life.
Dalai LamaRead
In practicing meditation, we're not trying to live up to some kind of ideal -- quite the opposite. We're just being with our experience, whatever it is.
Pema ChodronRead
The infinite faith I have in people's ability to understand anything that makes sense has always been justified, finally, by their behavior.
Alice WalkerRead

A little wisdom, now and then

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