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About this quote

What does it mean?
A blunt and rude questioning of a subordinate's competence.
In plain terms
Asking someone if they are still stupid.
What can you take from it?
Directness can be harsh.

Where it applies

  • military command
  • private conversation
  • criticism

Putting it to work

  • avoid personal attacks
  • focus on performance
  • maintain respect

Questions to consider

  • Is bluntness effective?
  • How should leaders critique?

Another view

Humor and directness vary by culture and relationship.

More from Charles de Gaulle

  1. That's a tall order, indeed.

    Permalink to quote #36
  2. I have come to the conclusion that politics is too serious a matter to be left to the politicians.

    Permalink to quote #38
  3. You may be sure that the Americans will commit all the stupidities they can think of, plus some that are beyond imagination.

    Permalink to quote #35

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