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Cases Quote by Stephen Potter

“In lawn tennis mixed, the basic chivalry move is to pretend to serve less fiercely to the woman than to the man. This is particularly useful if your first service tends to be out in any case.” quote by Stephen Potter
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“In lawn tennis mixed, the basic chivalry move is to pretend to serve less fiercely to the woman than to the man. This is particularly useful if your first service tends to be out in any case.”

Stephen Potter

About This Quote

Source Book: The Compleat Public Speaker by Stephen Potter, 1950

Mixed doubles etiquette suggests men should serve less aggressively to women, a tactic that can mask skill gaps.

In simple terms: Men should serve softer to women in mixed tennis.

Key Takeaway

Use strategic serving to balance play.

Themes

sportsmanship gender dynamics strategy etiquette

Mood

playful critical

Type

observational humorous

When to use this quote

  • mixed doubles tennis
  • co-ed sports
  • social settings

Key Concepts

social norms competitive tactics

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is this practice fair or outdated?
  • How can etiquette evolve?
A Different Perspective

Such tactics may reinforce gender stereotypes.

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