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Pride... is a very common failing, I believe. By all that…

“Pride... is a very common failing, I believe. By all that I have ever read, I am convinced that it is very common indeed; that human nature is particularly prone to it, and that there are very few of us who do not cherish a feeling of self-complacency on the score of some quality or the other…” quote by Jane Austen
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“Pride... is a very common failing, I believe. By all that I have ever read, I am convinced that it is very common indeed; that human nature is particularly prone to it, and that there are very few of us who do not cherish a feeling of self-complacency on the score of some quality or the other, real or imaginary. Vanity and pride are different things, though the words are often used synonymously. A person may be proud without being vain. Pride relates more to our opinion of ourselves, vanity to what we would have others think of us.”

Jane Austen

About This Quote

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

Pride is a common human flaw, distinct from vanity; it stems from self‑evaluation, while vanity seeks external approval.

In simple terms: Pride is self‑esteem, vanity seeks others’ praise.

Key Takeaway

Balance self‑respect with humility.

Themes

pride vanity human nature self‑perception

Mood

thoughtful analytical contemplative

Type

literary philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • career advancement
  • public speaking
  • leadership
  • social media

Key Concepts

psychology ethics social behavior

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you seek validation or self‑approval?
  • How can humility improve your relationships?
A Different Perspective

Pride can become arrogance if unchecked.

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