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About this quote

What does it mean?
Shaw suggests that remaining silent can be a stronger form of contempt than words.
In plain terms
Not saying anything can show you look down on someone.
What can you take from it?
Silence can speak louder than insults.

Where it applies

  • conflict resolution
  • social interactions
  • personal boundaries

Putting it to work

  • use silence strategically
  • observe nonverbal cues
  • reflect before speaking

Questions to consider

  • When is silence more powerful than speech?
  • Is silence always scorn?

Another view

Silence can also be interpreted as agreement or indifference.

More from George Bernard Shaw

  1. Everything happens to everybody sooner or later if there is time enough.

    Permalink to quote #182

  2. The worst cliques are those which consist of one man.

    Permalink to quote #184

  3. There are no secrets except the secrets that keep themselves.

    Permalink to quote #181

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