
ProverbWisdom
English originc. 1600
Brevity is the soul of wit.
Meaning: Sharp minds compress meaning into few words; excess dulls the blade of cleverness.
Who said it? William Shakespeare, Hamlet, c. 1600
Origin: From Shakespeare's Hamlet (c. 1600), and the joke is who says it: Polonius, the most long-winded character in the play, announces "brevity is the soul of wit" in the middle of a rambling speech. "Wit" then meant intelligence and understanding, not just humor.
Explore another collection: Compliments & Insults
Compliments and insults from around the world, from the sweet to the savage.
- Золотые руки (Zolotye ruki) You're wonderfully skilled with your hands — a true master at making and fixing things.
- Χρυσό μου (Chrysó mou) My darling — a tender term of endearment.
- Sei un fenomeno You're amazing — exceptionally good at what you do.
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