Advantage Quote by Samuel Johnson
“Every man speaks and writes with intent to be understood; and it can seldom happen but he that understands himself, might convey his notions to another, if, content to be understood, he did not seek to be admired; but when once he begins to contrive how his sentiments may be received, not with most ease to his reader, but with most advantage to himself, he then transfers his consideration from words to sounds, from sentences to periods, and, as he grows more elegant, becomes less intelligible.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Idler, 1759
The author argues that focusing on personal gain over clear communication makes language less understandable.
In simple terms: Seeking admiration over clarity clouds meaning.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize clarity, not self‑interest.
Themes
communication
clarity
ego
interpretation
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
advisory
philosophical
When to use this quote
- teaching
- public speaking
- writing
- leadership
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
rhetoric
self‑awareness
intentionality
Questions to Reflect On
- How does ego affect your communication?
- What steps can you take to ensure clarity?
A Different Perspective
If the writer values self‑image, the audience may misinterpret.
![“Next came the Patent laws. These began in England in 1624; and, in this country, with the adoption of our constitution. Before then [these?], any man might instantly use what another had invented; so that the inventor had no special advantage from his own invention. The patent system changed this…” quote by Abraham Lincoln](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/449/abraham-lincoln-88_adoption_next-came-the-patent-laws-these-began-in_1828.jpg)
