How we change what others think, feel, believe and do

Sententia

Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Sententia

Method | Example | Discussion | See also

Description

Sententia is the quoting of apparent wisdom to imply truth.

Example

You know what they say, 'Life is for living.' So let's get back to my place and do some real living!

My father always told me that the wise man works smarter, not harder, which is why I think I need a break.

80% of knowledge is tacit, so no matter what I write, I cannot pass on all I know.

Discussion

A sententious person regularly quotes aphorisms, which are pithy sayings that appear to embed wisdom. Aphorisms include traditional sayings that are handed down 'from your grandmother', such as 'early to bed, early to rise, makes a person healthy, wealthy and wise.'

Wisdoms appear in various forms, but often they are short sayings that are not intended to be challenged, even though they may be serious fallacies. This can make them particularly useful in persuasion where you want to make a point without question.

Classification: Reasoning