Skip to content

If I have said something to hurt a man once, I shall not…

“If I have said something to hurt a man once, I shall not get the better of this by saying many things to please him.” quote by Samuel Johnson
Download Open image
“If I have said something to hurt a man once, I shall not get the better of this by saying many things to please him.”

Samuel Johnson

About This Quote

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

If you hurt a man once, don’t try to please him with many words later.

In simple terms: Don’t compensate hurt with excessive flattery.

Key Takeaway

Speak sincerely, not manipulatively.

Themes

ethics communication integrity

Mood

reflective ethical

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • conflict resolution
  • public discourse

Key Concepts

reparative language honesty

Questions to Reflect On

  • What is the right balance of apology?
  • How can we avoid insincere gestures?
A Different Perspective

Sincere apologies may be more effective.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Samuel Johnson

Explore all 1,998 Samuel Johnson quotes

More Hurt quotes

Browse all 13,577 Hurt quotes