Careful Words

advice (n.)

  We may give advice, but we cannot inspire the conduct.

Isaac De Benserade (1612-1691): Maxim 378.

Carlyle says, in his "History of Frederick the Great," book ii. chap. vii. that this saying of Alphonso about Ptolemy's astronomy, "that it seemed a crank machine; that it was pity the Creator had not taken advice," is still remembered by mankind,—this and no other of his many sayings.

  Many receive advice, few profit by it.

Publius Syrus (42 b c): Maxim 149.

  Nothing is given so profusely as advice.

Isaac De Benserade (1612-1691): Maxim 110.

'T was good advice, and meant, my son, Be good.

George Crabbe (1754-1832): Tales. Tale xxi. The Learned Boy.