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About this quote

What does it mean?
When speaking truth, do not prioritize aesthetic style over substance.
In plain terms
Truth needs no fancy dressing.
What can you take from it?
Prioritize truth over elegance in communication.

Where it applies

  • writing
  • speeches
  • scientific reports

Putting it to work

  • clear writing
  • honest reporting
  • direct speech

Questions to consider

  • Does style help or hurt truth?
  • How do you balance style and substance?

Another view

Elegance can sometimes help truth reach more people.

More from Albert Einstein

  1. If the facts don't fit the theory, change the facts.

    Permalink to quote #204
  2. In order to form an immaculate member of a flock of sheep one must, above all, be a sheep.

    Permalink to quote #206
  3. If people are good only because they fear punishment, and hope for reward, then we are a sorry lot indeed.

    Permalink to quote #203

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