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He was always late on principle, his principle being that…

“He was always late on principle, his principle being that punctuality is the thief of time.” quote by Oscar Wilde
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“He was always late on principle, his principle being that punctuality is the thief of time.”

Oscar Wilde

About This Quote

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

He deliberately arrives late to claim that punctuality wastes valuable time.

In simple terms: Late on principle, valuing time over timeliness.

Key Takeaway

Question the value of strict punctuality.

Themes

time principle punctuality

Mood

witty critical

Type

philosophical humorous

When to use this quote

  • work meetings
  • social events
  • personal routines

Key Concepts

philosophical irony social critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is punctuality always a virtue?
  • When is flexibility preferable?
A Different Perspective

May be seen as disrespectful.

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