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Assassin Quote by Tryon Edwards

“The slanderer and the assassin differ only in the weapon they use; with the one it is the dagger, with the other the tongue. The former is worse that the latter, for the last only kills the body, while the other murders the reputation.” quote by Tryon Edwards
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“The slanderer and the assassin differ only in the weapon they use; with the one it is the dagger, with the other the tongue. The former is worse that the latter, for the last only kills the body, while the other murders the reputation.”

Tryon Edwards

About This Quote

A slanderer harms reputation with words, while an assassin harms physically with a dagger; the former’s damage is more lasting.

In simple terms: Words can damage reputation more than a weapon can kill a body.

Key Takeaway

Guard your speech and reputation.

Themes

ethics communication reputation violence

Mood

cautionary reflective

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • public relations
  • personal relationships
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

reputational risk oral philosophy impact of language

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you protect your reputation?
  • What strategies prevent harmful speech?
A Different Perspective

Words can be less visible but equally destructive.

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