Communication Quote by Benjamin Franklin
“You must not, when you have gained a victory, use any triumphing or insulting expression, nor show too much pleasure ; but endeavor to console your adversary, and make him less dissatisfied with himself by every kind and civil expression, that may be”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Letter to John Bartram, 1765
After winning, avoid gloating; instead, comfort the loser to reduce their shame.
In simple terms: Be gracious in victory, console the defeated.
Key Takeaway
Show humility and kindness after success.
Themes
humility
sportspathy
sportsmanship
Mood
reflective
respectful
Type
ethical
advisory
When to use this quote
- team competitions
- political debates
- business negotiations
- sports events
- academic contests
Key Concepts
Ethics
social grace
emotional intelligence
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance confidence and compassion?
- What words soothe a rival without seeming patronizing?
A Different Perspective
If you over‑comfort, you may appear insincere.
