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Bitterness Quote by William Shakespeare

“Neither a borrower nor a lender be, for loan oft loses both itself and friend, and borrowing dulls the edge of husbandry.” quote by William Shakespeare
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“Neither a borrower nor a lender be, for loan oft loses both itself and friend, and borrowing dulls the edge of husbandry.”

William Shakespeare

About This Quote

Source Play: Hamlet, Act I, Scene 3, 1603

Advice against financial entanglements that can damage relationships and personal prudence.

In simple terms: Lending and borrowing can harm friends and money.

Key Takeaway

Avoid mixing money with friendship.

Themes

friendship finance prudence trust responsibility

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

moral advice

When to use this quote

  • business partnerships
  • personal loans
  • family finances
  • friendship decisions

Key Concepts

economic risk social bonds personal discipline

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance generosity with self‑protection?
  • When is lending a friend appropriate?
A Different Perspective

May overlook benefits of mutual aid in emergencies.

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