Skip to content

Lucy, dear child, mind your arithmetic. You know in the…

“Lucy, dear child, mind your arithmetic. You know in the first sum of yours I ever saw there was a mistake. You had carried two (as a cab is licensed to do), and you ought, dear Lucy, to have carried but one. Is this a trifle? What would life be without arithmetic, but a scene of horrors.” quote by Sydney Smith
Download Open image
“Lucy, dear child, mind your arithmetic. You know in the first sum of yours I ever saw there was a mistake. You had carried two (as a cab is licensed to do), and you ought, dear Lucy, to have carried but one. Is this a trifle? What would life be without arithmetic, but a scene of horrors.”

Sydney Smith

About This Quote

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

The quote stresses that arithmetic is essential for life, likening its absence to horror.

In simple terms: Arithmetic is crucial for everyday life.

Key Takeaway

Value and practice basic math.

Themes

education practicality necessity

Mood

reflective serious

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • school
  • finance
  • daily tasks
  • problem solving

Key Concepts

numeracy logic foundation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does math influence your daily decisions?
  • What would happen without basic calculations?
A Different Perspective

Neglecting arithmetic can lead to errors and mishaps.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Sydney Smith

Explore all 98 Sydney Smith quotes

More Arithmetic quotes

Browse all 233 Arithmetic quotes