A modest man, who has much to be modest about.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- This witty remark suggests that true modesty is rare and often unnecessary when one has significant achievements to be humble about.
- In plain terms
- It is funny that someone is modest when they have good reason to be proud.
- What can you take from it?
- True humility is most notable when it contrasts with actual accomplishment.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When is modesty a sign of insecurity?
- How do we measure true achievement?
Another view
The quote relies on irony and may not apply to genuinely humble people who downplay their success.
More from Winston Churchill
Although prepared for martyrdom, I preferred that it be postponed. (to be found in 'My Early Life', the story of his first 25 years).
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