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To brag little, to lose well, / To crow gently if in luck…

“To brag little, to lose well, / To crow gently if in luck, / To pay up, to own up, / To shut up if beaten, / Are the virtues of a sportingman.” quote by Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr
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“To brag little, to lose well, / To crow gently if in luck, / To pay up, to own up, / To shut up if beaten, / Are the virtues of a sportingman.”

Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr

About This Quote

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

A true sportsman shows humility, honesty, and restraint in both victory and defeat.

In simple terms: Sportsmanship means being modest and honest.

Key Takeaway

Practice humility and honesty in competition.

Themes

humility honesty sportsmanship

Mood

respectful thoughtful

Type

ethical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • team sports
  • business negotiations
  • public speaking
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

integrity character self‑control

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance confidence with humility?
  • When have you shown restraint after a win?
A Different Perspective

May be misread as weakness; some cultures prize aggressive confidence.

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