Breach Quote by William Shakespeare
“If is a custom, More honor'd in the breach than the observance.”
About This Quote
Source Play: Much Ado About Nothing, 1598
Customs are more respected when they are broken than when they are followed, highlighting hypocrisy.
In simple terms: People often respect rules more when they are ignored.
Beware of hypocrisy in social norms.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- political debates
- workplace policies
- family traditions
- friend group dynamics
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you follow customs for genuine belief or social pressure?
- How does breaking a rule affect its perceived value?
The quote may overstate the prevalence of hypocrisy; many uphold customs sincerely.