Hurt Quote by Samuel Johnson
“If I have said something to hurt a man once, I shall not get the better of this by saying many things to please him.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “On the Use of Language”, 1775
If you hurt a man once, don’t try to please him with many words later.
In simple terms: Don’t compensate hurt with excessive flattery.
Speak sincerely, not manipulatively.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- conflict resolution
- public discourse
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What is the right balance of apology?
- How can we avoid insincere gestures?
Sincere apologies may be more effective.