proverb · Words worth keeping
Whoever utters slander is a fool.
Whoever utters slander is a fool.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
The saying calls the person uttering slander a fool. It condemns damaging speech through a broad label rather than explaining its particular consequences.
Example
Someone checks the basis for a damaging allegation instead of repeating it or labelling every criticism slander.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
Whoever makes the condemnation general. A useful application can examine an unsupported harmful allegation without equating all criticism with slander. The wording does not establish a legal definition or decide whether a particular statement is false. Evidence and context are still needed.
When to use it
Use it to discuss harmful allegations with attention to evidence.
Keep in mind
The phrase does not supply a legal definition or establish the truth of a particular claim.
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