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Language Quote by Horace

“It will be practicable to blot written words which you do not publish; but the spoken word it is not possible to recall. [Lat., Delere licebit Quod non edideris; nescit vox missa reverti.]” quote by Horace
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“It will be practicable to blot written words which you do not publish; but the spoken word it is not possible to recall. [Lat., Delere licebit Quod non edideris; nescit vox missa reverti.]”

Horace

About This Quote

Source Poem: Odes by Horace, 1st century BC

Written words can be erased, but spoken words cannot be taken back.

In simple terms: Spoken words are irreversible.

Key Takeaway

Think before speaking.

Themes

communication irrevocability memory

Mood

reflective cautious

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • public speaking
  • conflict resolution
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

rhetoric ethics history

Questions to Reflect On

  • What would you say differently now?
  • How do you handle spoken regrets?
A Different Perspective

Spoken words can be mitigated with apologies.

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