Skip to content

Acquaintance Quote by Charles Caleb Colton

“Some men who know that they are great are so very haughty withal and insufferable that their acquaintance discover their greatness only by the tax of humility which they are obliged to pay as the price of their friendship.” quote by Charles Caleb Colton
Download Open image
“Some men who know that they are great are so very haughty withal and insufferable that their acquaintance discover their greatness only by the tax of humility which they are obliged to pay as the price of their friendship.”

Charles Caleb Colton

About This Quote

Source Essay: Miscellany, 1820

People who recognize their own greatness often become arrogant, but true friends only see their value when they show humility.

In simple terms: Arrogance hides greatness; humility reveals it.

Key Takeaway

Practice humility to earn genuine respect.

Themes

humility pride friendship self-awareness

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • leadership
  • personal relationships
  • team dynamics
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

ego social perception authenticity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does humility change others' perception of you?
  • When is confidence more effective than humility?
A Different Perspective

Humility may be perceived as weakness, limiting influence.

4.1 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by Charles Caleb Colton

Explore all 778 Charles Caleb Colton quotes

More Acquaintance quotes

Browse all 484 Acquaintance quotes