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About this quote

What does it mean?
Staircase wit refers to thinking of perfect replies too late.
In plain terms
You think of the best comeback after you have left.
What can you take from it?
Good replies come too late.

Where it applies

  • after arguments
  • social awkwardness
  • discussing wit

Putting it to work

  • prepare responses
  • accept imperfection

Questions to consider

  • Do you ever think of better comebacks later?
  • How do you handle being caught off guard?

Another view

Not everyone feels this regret.

More from Denis Diderot

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