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A slander is like a hornet; if you cannot kill it dead at…

“A slander is like a hornet; if you cannot kill it dead at the first blow, better not to strike at it.” quote by Josh Billings
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“A slander is like a hornet; if you cannot kill it dead at the first blow, better not to strike at it.”

Josh Billings

About This Quote

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

A slander, if not eliminated immediately, should be ignored rather than provoked further.

In simple terms: Ignore persistent rumors instead of fighting them.

Key Takeaway

Let slander pass.

Themes

communication conflict ethics

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

advice proverbial

When to use this quote

  • online discourse
  • workplace gossip
  • political debate
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

slander hornet strategy patience

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is confronting a slander effective?
  • How do you decide when to ignore?
A Different Perspective

Ignoring may allow damage to spread unchecked.

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