Communication Quote by Zhuangzi
“Great wisdom is generous; petty wisdom is contentious. Great speech is impassioned, small speech cantankerous.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Zhuangzi, 4th century BC
Contrasts generous wisdom with petty wisdom, and impassioned speech with cantankerous speech.
In simple terms: Wise speech is generous; petty speech is contentious.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate generosity and passion in thought and speech.
Themes
wisdom
speech
generosity
Mood
thoughtful
inspirational
Type
philosophical
didactic
When to use this quote
- leadership
- teaching
- public speaking
Key Concepts
philosophy
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you make speech both generous and passionate?
- What distinguishes wise from petty wisdom?
A Different Perspective
Passionate speech can become aggressive if unchecked.
