Advertisers Quote by Daniel Starch
“Such exaggerations have been so common that the public takes them with a grain of salt and partly excuses them as being due to the advertiser's license of self-assertiveness. Nevertheless, the fact remains that superlative generalities are weak arguments and far less convincing than a statement of facts. Much advertising copy would be improved immensely by doing away with brag and substituting actual facts about the merits of the article.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Advertising Principles, Daniel Starch, 1923
Exaggerated claims are weak; factual statements are more persuasive in advertising.
In simple terms: Facts persuade better than hype.
Key Takeaway
Use concrete facts in marketing.
Themes
advertising
truthfulness
persuasion
communication
ethics
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
business
educational
When to use this quote
- product labeling
- political campaigns
- public health messaging
- brand storytelling
Key Concepts
rhetoric
logical argument
consumer trust
Questions to Reflect On
- How can facts be made engaging?
- When is hyperbole acceptable?
A Different Perspective
Fact‑based claims can be less emotionally compelling.
