Il y a des reproches qui louent et des louanges qui medisent.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Some criticisms actually praise, while some praises insult. Intent and context determine whether words build or harm.
- In plain terms
- Not all praise is good; not all criticism is bad.
- What can you take from it?
- Look past surface words to true meaning.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How to spot backhanded compliments?
- When is criticism kind?
Another view
Sometimes tone alone reveals the truth.
More from Francois de La Rochefoucauld
On ne loue d'ordinaire que pour etre loue.
Permalink to quote #47 Le refus des louanges est un desir d'etre loue deux fois.
Permalink to quote #49 On aime mieux dire du mal de soi-meme que de n'en point parler.
Permalink to quote #46
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