speakers are blameless, listeners should be warned
Meanings
1 sense · 4 examplesproverb
the speaker is blameless, and the listener should take it as a warning
literaryOriginally from the 'Great Preface' to the Book of Songs (Shī Dà Xù). Used to encourage free expression of opinions and open-minded acceptance of criticism. The phrase emphasizes that criticism should be welcomed without punishing the critic, and that even unfounded criticism can serve as a useful warning.
We should create an atmosphere where speakers are blameless and listeners are warned, encouraging everyone to offer more opinions.
The ancients advocated that speakers are blameless and listeners should be warned, an attitude worth our learning.
Show 2 more examplesShow fewer examples
In democratic societies, 'the speaker is blameless, the listener is warned' is a fundamental principle.
Leaders should have the magnanimity to take warnings from listeners, ensuring that speakers are blameless when offering opinions.