Don't speak evil of someone if you don't know for certain, and if you do know ask yourself, why am I telling it?
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Do not speak negatively about others unless you know it for sure, and if you do, question your motive.
- In plain terms
- Don't speak ill of anyone unless you know it for sure, and ask why you tell it.
- What can you take from it?
- Verify rumors and check your reasons before sharing them.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Why do you share this?
- Is this information verified?
Another view
Sometimes silence can hide necessary truths.
More from Johann Kaspar Lavater
Conscience is the sentinel of virtue.
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