proverb · Words worth keeping
One who hears flattery, but no criticism, will go astray.
One who hears flattery, but no criticism, will go astray.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
Flattery without criticism is pictured as leading someone astray. The saying warns that only approving feedback may leave important problems unseen.
Example
Someone invites specific feedback and examines its reasons instead of seeking only compliments.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
Will go makes the outcome sound certain, but neither praise nor criticism guarantees insight. A useful interpretation seeks relevant honest feedback without assuming every objection is fair or demanding tolerance of abuse. The quality and evidence of a response matter more than whether it is agreeable.
When to use it
Use it to discuss informative feedback with fair treatment retained.
Keep in mind
No inevitable failure or duty to accept hostile criticism is established.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
China
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin.- Historical period
- Date unknown
- Culture
- China