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To keep your secret is wisdom; but to expect others to…

“To keep your secret is wisdom; but to expect others to keep it is folly.” quote by Samuel Johnson
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“To keep your secret is wisdom; but to expect others to keep it is folly.”

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.

Keeping secrets is wise, but expecting others to keep them is foolish, highlighting the risk of trusting others with confidential information.

In simple terms: Secrets are safe if you keep them yourself.

Key Takeaway

Guard secrets personally; limit sharing.

Themes

trust wisdom privacy

Mood

cautious thoughtful

Type

advisory ethical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • workplace confidentiality
  • legal agreements
  • family discussions
  • online privacy

Key Concepts

confidentiality human fallibility communication

Questions to Reflect On

  • Who can you truly trust with sensitive information?
  • What safeguards can you implement when sharing secrets?
A Different Perspective

People may unintentionally reveal secrets despite best intentions.

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