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Education Quote by Jonathan Swift

“Oh how our neighbour lifts his nose, To tell what every schoolboy knows.” quote by Jonathan Swift
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“Oh how our neighbour lifts his nose, To tell what every schoolboy knows.”

Jonathan Swift

About This Quote

Source Poem: A Tale of a Tub, 1704

The speaker mocks a neighbor’s pretentiousness, implying that everyone knows the truth behind his inflated self‑importance.

In simple terms: Mocking a pretentious neighbor.

Key Takeaway

See through false airs.

Themes

satire pride social criticism

Mood

wry critical

Type

satirical observational

When to use this quote

  • social gatherings
  • workplace
  • family events

Key Concepts

Ego public perception

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do people flaunt superiority?
  • How can humility be encouraged?
A Different Perspective

Satire may overlook underlying reasons for the neighbor’s behavior.

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