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About this quote

What does it mean?
Being praised by the wrong person in the wrong context can feel like an insult.
In plain terms
Wrong praise feels just as bad as criticism to a noble person.
What can you take from it?
Ensure praise comes from credible sources to maintain dignity.

Where it applies

  • workplace feedback
  • public recognition
  • artistic critique

Putting it to work

  • seek credible feedback
  • value peer review
  • avoid flattery

Questions to consider

  • Why does source matter for praise?
  • How does bad praise feel?

Another view

Praise from anyone can boost confidence regardless of source.

More from Ben Jonson

  1. A good life is a main argument.

    Permalink to quote #44
  2. A cripple in the way out-travels a footman or a post out of the way.

    Permalink to quote #46
  3. Opinion is a light, vain, crude, and imperfect thing;

    Permalink to quote #43

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