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Commonplace Quote by William Hazlitt

“An orator can hardly get beyond commonplaces: if he does he gets beyond his hearers.” quote by William Hazlitt
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“An orator can hardly get beyond commonplaces: if he does he gets beyond his hearers.”

William Hazlitt

About This Quote

Source Essay: On the Limits of Rhetoric, 1820

Speakers who rely on clichés lose audience connection; originality is needed to truly engage listeners.

In simple terms: Clichés alienate listeners; be original.

Key Takeaway

Speak fresh ideas.

Themes

communication creativity audience

Mood

thoughtful inspirational

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • public speaking
  • writing
  • teaching
  • marketing

Key Concepts

rhetoric originality engagement

Questions to Reflect On

  • What fresh perspectives can you bring?
  • How do you gauge audience reaction?
A Different Perspective

Audience may resist unfamiliar viewpoints.

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