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Better Quote by Thomas Carlyle

“Under all speech that is good for anything there lies a silence that is better.” quote by Thomas Carlyle
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““Under all speech that is good for anything there lies a silence that is better.””

Thomas Carlyle

About This Quote

Source Essay: “Signs of the Times,” 1849

Good speech is always underpinned by a deeper, more powerful silence that conveys meaning beyond words.

In simple terms: Silence can be more meaningful than speech.

Key Takeaway

Listen to the silence behind words.

Themes

communication silence truth

Mood

thoughtful contemplative

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • public speaking
  • conflict resolution
  • personal introspection

Key Concepts

philosophy rhetoric

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does silence speak louder than words?
  • How can we discern meaningful silence?
A Different Perspective

Silence may be misinterpreted as indifference.

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