ProverbWisdom
English origin
English originA smart reproof is better than smooth deceit.
Meaning: Honest criticism that stings teaches growth, while flattery disguised as kindness poisons judgment.
Origin: Recorded in A Dictionary of English Proverbs and Proverbial Phrases, an undated collection published in London by Whittaker & Co. around 1880 and credited to Thomas Preston. Its earlier history hasn't been traced.
Explore another collection: Tongue Twisters
Tricky phrases to practice out loud, from languages around the world.
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