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Books Quote by George Mikes

“In England only uneducated people show off their knowledge; nobody quotes Latin or Greek authors in the course of conversation, unless he has never read them.” quote by George Mikes
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“In England only uneducated people show off their knowledge; nobody quotes Latin or Greek authors in the course of conversation, unless he has never read them.”

George Mikes

About This Quote

Source Essay: The English and Their History, 1950

Critiques pretentious displays of knowledge, noting true erudition is modest and not flaunted.

In simple terms: Smart people don't brag about knowledge.

Key Takeaway

Value humility over showing off.

Themes

education humility communication

Mood

reflective critical

Type

social observational

When to use this quote

  • classroom discussions
  • professional meetings
  • social gatherings

Key Concepts

social etiquette intellectual honesty

Questions to Reflect On

  • When have you appreciated quiet expertise?
  • How can you encourage modest sharing of knowledge?
A Different Perspective

May overlook genuine expertise that is simply unspoken.

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