Browse quotes by category
Thousands of quotes organised by category, author, and topic. Every entry comes with attribution and, where possible, a plain-language meaning—so you leave with an idea you can actually use, not just a phrase to copy.
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“The only way to get rid of temptation is to yield to it.”
Meaning: A witty perspective on desire and restraint. -
“Politics is the art of the possible.”
Meaning: Political success depends on practical solutions rather than idealism. -
“Laws are like sausages, it is better not to see them being made.”
Meaning: The process behind decision-making can be messy and complex. -
“Only a fool learns from his own mistakes. The wise man learns from the mistakes of others.”
Meaning: Wisdom comes from observing and learning beyond personal experience. -
“Preventive war is like committing suicide for fear of death.”
Meaning: Preemptive actions can lead to unnecessary destruction. -
“A great statesman is he who knows when to depart from traditions.”
Meaning: Adaptability is key to effective leadership. -
“The secret of politics? Make a good treaty with Russia.”
Meaning: Strategic alliances are crucial in geopolitics. -
“People never lie so much as after a hunt, during a war, or before an election.”
Meaning: Certain situations encourage exaggeration and dishonesty. -
“The great questions of the day will not be settled by means of speeches and majority decisions but by iron and blood.”
Meaning: Power and force often shape history more than debate. -
“Never believe anything in politics until it has been officially denied.”
Meaning: Official statements may conceal the truth. -
“The main thing is to make history, not to write it.”
Meaning: Action matters more than documentation. -
“Love is a kind of warfare.”
Meaning: Romantic relationships often involve struggle and conflict. -
“Take rest; a field that has rested gives a bountiful crop.”
Meaning: Rest is essential for productivity and growth. -
“Fortune and love favor the brave.”
Meaning: Courage increases chances of success and happiness. -
“Happy is the man who has broken the chains which hurt the mind.”
Meaning: Freedom from mental burdens brings happiness. -
“The cause is hidden; the effect is visible to all.”
Meaning: People often see outcomes without understanding reasons. -
“He who has a thousand friends has not a friend to spare.”
Meaning: True friendship is rare and valuable.
