When people say perhaps its cause they're lying. Either they don't believe the thing they're saying, or they do believe it only they don't want to admit they do
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- People use uncertainty to hide their true intentions or beliefs.
- In plain terms
- Saying maybe often means someone is hiding the truth.
- What can you take from it?
- Watch for hesitation when someone claims neutrality.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When did you last use maybe to hide your opinion?
- How can you tell the difference between doubt and deceit?
Another view
Sometimes people say perhaps because they genuinely are unsure.
More from Orson Scott Card
Perhaps I'm hiding from myself. Perhaps I don't want to be what I'm supposed to be. Or perhaps I don't want to keep living the life I already started to live
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Permalink to quote #536 A liar sees lies, even when they aren't there. Just as a hypocrite sees hypocrites whenever he runs across good people. Can't stand to think that anyone might …
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