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About this quote

What does it mean?
Some people call rudeness wit, especially when mocking others' flaws.
In plain terms
People think being rude makes them witty.
What can you take from it?
Mockery isn't the same as wit.

Where it applies

  • group banter
  • criticism
  • social settings

Putting it to work

  • avoid mocking others
  • value kindness
  • spot false wit

Questions to consider

  • Is teasing ever acceptable?
  • Where is the line between wit and insult?

Another view

Some wit is meant to be playful.

More from Jonathan Swift

  1. A set of phrases learnt by rote; A passion for a scarlet coat; When at a play to laugh, or cry, Yet cannot tell the reason why: Never to hold her tongue a minu…

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  2. Those dreams that on the silent night intrude, and with false flitting shapes our minds delude ... are mere productions of the brain. And fools consult interpr…

    Permalink to quote #24
  3. Libertas et natale solum: Fine words! I wonder where you stole 'em.

    Permalink to quote #21

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