What does “Be swift to hear, slow to speak.” mean?
"Be swift to hear, slow to speak" means that it is better to listen attentively before speaking.
What context can I use the in?
Example
Before jumping to conclusions, be swift to hear, slow to speak. Take the time to listen and understand the full story.
Example
In a heated argument, it's important to remember be swift to hear, slow to speak. Take a moment to listen to the other person's perspective.
Example
When it comes to communication, be swift to hear, slow to speak. Listening is just as important as speaking
Is “Be swift to hear, slow to speak.” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Be swift to hear, slow to speak.” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Be swift to hear, slow to speak.” effectively in context?
You can use "Be swift to hear, slow to speak" to remind yourself or others to prioritize active listening and thoughtful communication. Here are three distinct situations where you can effectively use this proverb:
- 1Conflict Resolution
During a disagreement with a friend, remember to be swift to hear, slow to speak. Take the time to listen to their perspective before responding.
- 2Learning and Growth
When learning a new skill, it's important to be swift to hear, slow to speak. Listen to instructions and advice from experts before jumping in.
- 3Building Relationships
In order to build strong relationships, it's crucial to be swift to hear, slow to speak. Listen attentively to others and show genuine interest in their thoughts and feelings.
Similar phrases to “Be swift to hear, slow to speak.”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Be swift to hear, slow to speak.” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Be swift to hear, slow to speak" can be traced back to the Bible, specifically James 1:19. It is a proverb that emphasizes the importance of listening before speaking.
Is “Be swift to hear, slow to speak.” common in everyday conversation?
While this proverb may not be as commonly used in everyday conversation, it is still recognized and understood by many. It is often used in more formal or reflective settings, such as discussions about communication skills or personal development.
What tone does “Be swift to hear, slow to speak.” have?
"Be swift to hear, slow to speak" conveys a tone of wisdom and prudence. It encourages individuals to approach conversations and interactions with patience and attentiveness.
Can “Be swift to hear, slow to speak.” be used in informal and formal settings?
This proverb is generally considered formal and is often used in more serious or reflective contexts. It can be used in both informal and formal settings, but it is more commonly used in situations that require thoughtful communication.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
While it is possible to use this proverb by itself to convey its meaning, it is more commonly used as part of a sentence to provide context and emphasize the importance of listening before speaking. For example, 'In any discussion, it's important to "be swift to hear, slow to speak".'
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- hear more, talk less
- listen first, speak later
- take time to listen, choose words carefully
- speak after careful consideration
Antonyms
- speak without thinking
- talk before listening
- interrupt without hearing
- jump to conclusions
- ignore others' perspectives
