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You must not, when you have gained a victory, use any…

“You must not, when you have gained a victory, use any triumphing or insulting expressions, nor show too much of the pleasure you feel; but endeavour to console your adversary, and make him less dissatisfied with himself by every kind and civil expression that may be used with truth; such as, you…” quote by Benjamin Franklin
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“You must not, when you have gained a victory, use any triumphing or insulting expressions, nor show too much of the pleasure you feel; but endeavour to console your adversary, and make him less dissatisfied with himself by every kind and civil expression that may be used with truth; such as, you understand the game better than I, but you are a little inattentive, or, you play too fast; or, you had the best of the game, but something happened to divert your thoughts, and that turned it in my favour.”

Benjamin Franklin

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Winning graciously means showing humility, offering kindness, and avoiding boastful remarks toward a defeated opponent.

In simple terms: Be humble after victory.

Key Takeaway

Treat opponents with respect.

Themes

humility sportsmanship empathy

Mood

respectful considerate

Type

ethical advice

When to use this quote

  • team sports
  • board games
  • debates
  • business negotiations

Key Concepts

ethical conduct psychology of competition

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you balance confidence and humility?
  • What language shows respect without sounding patronizing?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on humility may be perceived as insincere.

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