Communication Quote by Samuel Johnson
![“APOSIOPESIS (APOSIOPE'SIS) n.s.[ from after, and rixp to be silent.] A form of speech, by which the speaker, through some affection, as sorrow, bashfulness, fear, anger, or vehemency, breaks off his speech before it be all ended. A figure, when, speaking of a thing, we yet seem to conceal it…” quote by Samuel Johnson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/afb/samuel-johnson-50_communication_aposiopesis-aposiope-sis-n-s-from-after_555897.jpg)
““APOSIOPESIS (APOSIOPE'SIS) n.s.[ from after, and rixp to be silent.] A form of speech, by which the speaker, through some affection, as sorrow, bashfulness, fear, anger, or vehemency, breaks off his speech before it be all ended. A figure, when, speaking of a thing, we yet seem to conceal it, though indeed we aggravate it; or when the course of the sentence begun is so stayed, as thereby some part of the sentence not being uttered, may be understood; as, I might say much more, but modesty commands silence.Smith’sRhetorick.””
About This Quote
Source Treatise: Smith’s Rhetorick, 1765
A rhetorical device where a speaker intentionally stops, suggesting deeper meaning or restraint.
In simple terms: Deliberate silence can convey more than words.
Key Takeaway
Use pauses to emphasize points.
Themes
communication
silence
moderation
subtlety
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
educational
Type
philosophical
instructive
When to use this quote
- public speaking
- writing
- debate
- interpersonal dialogue
Key Concepts
rhetorical pause
strategic omission
emotional restraint
Questions to Reflect On
- When is silence more powerful than speech?
- How can you convey meaning without words?
A Different Perspective
Risk of misinterpretation if context is unclear.
