proverb · Words worth keeping
Civil words cost nothing, and go a long way.
Civil words cost nothing, and go a long way.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
Polite words can make cooperation easier without requiring money or a large gesture. A respectful request or acknowledgement may help where a harsh manner would create resistance.
Example
A resident explains a missed collection calmly and thanks the worker for checking the schedule, rather than beginning with an insult.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
Civil means courteous and considerate in this saying. The contrast is between the small effort of choosing respectful language and the useful effect it can have on a conversation. A request, correction or refusal may be easier to hear when it recognises the other person’s dignity. The proverb values manner without claiming that words solve every problem. Politeness alone cannot repair unfair treatment or meet an unmet practical need. Its useful advice is to avoid adding needless friction through speech, while keeping the substance of the conversation honest and clear rather than disguising it behind pleasant phrases.
When to use it
Use it when respectful wording could make an ordinary exchange more constructive.
Keep in mind
Courtesy cannot replace action, excuse injustice or require someone to accept mistreatment silently.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- Date unknown
- Culture
- English