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To make another person hold his tongue, be you first silent.

“To make another person hold his tongue, be you first silent.” quote by Seneca the Younger
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“To make another person hold his tongue, be you first silent.”

Seneca the Younger

About This Quote

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

To silence others, first practice silence yourself; hypocrisy undermines influence.

In simple terms: Be quiet before demanding silence.

Key Takeaway

Model the behavior you expect.

Themes

ethics communication leadership self‑control philosophy

Mood

thoughtful serene

Type

philosophical advice

When to use this quote

  • team meetings
  • parenting
  • public speaking
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

hypocrisy leadership integrity personal discipline

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you convey authority while staying silent?
  • When is speaking more effective than silence?
A Different Perspective

Silence may be misinterpreted as weakness.

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