Common sense (which, in truth, is very uncommon) is the best sense I know of: abide by it; it will counsel you best.
Words are the dress of thoughts; which should no more be presented in rags, tatters, and dirt than your person should.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the importance of expressing our thoughts clearly and eloquently, just as we would present ourselves well.
Lord Chesterfield's quote suggests that just as our appearance matters, so does the way we communicate our thoughts. He draws a parallel between clothing and language, arguing that ideas deserve to be presented in a refined and thoughtful manner, rather than in a sloppy or careless way. This highlights the value of clarity and eloquence in communication, as our words shape how others perceive our thoughts and intentions.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about effective communication, you could say, 'As Lord Chesterfield wisely stated, words are the dress of thoughts.'
More from Lord Chesterfield
All quotes βNever seem wiser, nor more learned, than the people you are with. Wear your learning, like your watch, in a private pocket: and do not merely pull it out and strike it; merely to show that you have one.
If you can once engage people's pride, love, pity, ambition on your side, you need not fear what their reason can do against you.
Merit and knowledge will not gain hearts, though they will secure them when gained.
Firmness of purpose is one of the best instruments of success.
Wit is so shining a quality that everybody admires it; most people aim at it, all people fear it, and few love it unless in themselves. A man must have a good share of wit himself to endure a great share of it in another.
Similar quotes
Gratitude takes nothing for granted, is never unresponsive, is constantly awakening to new wonder.
Your demons will cause your angels to sing. Use the pain as fuel.
The marvel of all history is the patience with which men and women submit to burdens unnecessarily laid upon them by their governments.
Of my fifty-seven years I have applied at least thirty to forgetting most of what I have learned or read. Since then, I have acquired a certain ease and cheer which I should never again like to be without. (...) I have stored little in my memory, but I can apply that little, and it is of use in many and varied emergencies. I keep it in order, but resist every attempt to increase its dead weight.
Character is like a tree, and reputation is like its shadow.
Nothing goes by luck in composition. It allows of no tricks. The best you can write will be the best you are.