Skip to content

Communication Quote by J.Z. Colby

“On a ship, knowing when to be silent is just as important as knowing when to speak.” quote by J.Z. Colby
Download Open image
““On a ship, knowing when to be silent is just as important as knowing when to speak.””

J.Z. Colby

About This Quote

Source Book: The Art of Naval Warfare, J.Z. Colby, 2015

Effective communication requires both speaking and listening; silence can be as powerful as words.

In simple terms: Sometimes silence is as important as speech.

Key Takeaway

Choose when to speak and when to stay quiet.

Themes

communication leadership mindfulness

Mood

thoughtful strategic

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • team meetings
  • negotiations
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

strategic listening situational awareness

Questions to Reflect On

  • When have you used silence to improve a conversation?
  • How can you signal intent while staying quiet?
A Different Perspective

Silence may be misinterpreted as disengagement.

4.1 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by J.Z. Colby

Explore all 20 J.Z. Colby quotes

More Communication quotes

Browse all 21,506 Communication quotes