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About this quote

What does it mean?
Wit involves seeing similarities in different things and differences in similar things.
In plain terms
Being witty means spotting connections and contrasts others miss.
What can you take from it?
Look for connections and contrasts in what you see.

Where it applies

  • writing
  • problem solving
  • debate

Putting it to work

  • practice analogies
  • analyze similarities and differences

Questions to consider

  • When did you last spot a surprising connection?
  • How do you usually notice differences?

Another view

This definition might be too narrow for all forms of humor.

More from Anne Louise Germaine de Stael

  1. Innocence in genius, and candor in power, are both noble qualities.

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  2. The voice of conscience is so delicate that it is easy to stifle it; but it is also so clear that it is impossible to mistake it.

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  3. To be totally understanding makes one very indulgent.

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