Thomas Edison, the great figure who was ranked first in Life magazine’s list of “The 100 Most Important People of the Millennium” in 1999.
Known as the “Wizard of Invention” for achieving around 1,300 inventions and technological innovations over his lifetime, he’s also referred to by nicknames such as the “Father of Movies” and the “King of Lawsuits.”
This time, we’ve compiled a list of memorable quotes left by Thomas Edison.
The words of this tireless striver, also known as a man of indomitable spirit, are sure to give you great courage once you know them!
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The king of inventions known as a man of effort! Thomas Edison’s famous quotes (1–10)
I have never failed. I just found 10,000 ways that don’t work.Thomas Edison
Thomas Edison, known as the “Wizard of Invention,” changed the world with numerous creations like the light bulb and the phonograph.
This quote tells us that what truly matters is the determination to keep challenging ourselves.
When studying for exams, there are times when results don’t go as hoped or we get discouraged by repeating the same mistakes.
But rather than ending it with “I failed,” if we take it positively as “This was just a different approach,” even that failure becomes a step forward.
Edison’s words carry weight precisely because he kept pushing ahead despite ten thousand unsuccessful attempts.
It’s a quote that resonates when you want to focus less on outcomes and turn the lessons learned along the way into strength.
Find what the world needs, and invent it.Thomas Edison
The quote that conveys the driving force of Thomas Edison—who achieved numerous inventions and technological innovations that no one had created before—is: “Find out what the world needs and then invent it.” Perhaps it was this very mindset that made Thomas Edison the Wizard of Invention.
Even today, this way of thinking may continue to spark new technological breakthroughs across various fields.
It’s a quote I’d like those who want to do things differently from others to know.
There is no substitute for effort.Thomas Edison
A famous quote with real weight precisely because it came from Thomas Edison, known as a “man of effort”: “There is no substitute for hard work.” No matter how extraordinary your talent or exceptional your sense may be, without effort you can achieve nothing.
And it reminds us that the only person who can put in that effort is ourselves.
When you feel tempted to hide behind inborn gifts like talent or sense as an excuse, remember this quote that teaches the nobility and importance of effort.
Even if a book is authoritative, it’s still something written by a person.Thomas Edison
The famous quote “Even authoritative books are all written by people” carries the meaning that everything created in this world was produced by human beings just like ourselves.
No matter how brilliant a piece of writing, how beautiful a work of art, or how useful an item may be, none of these were made by anything other than humans—reminding us that everyone holds potential.
It’s a quote to recall when you feel down from comparing yourself to others, one that can help you stay positive.
You must not fear being criticized by others; it becomes nourishment for growth.Thomas Edison
From the quote, “Do not fear being criticized by others; it will nourish your growth,” one can sense Thomas Edison’s conviction and resolve.
Even today, whenever we try to start something new, headwinds are common—and in our social media age, many people casually broadcast criticism.
Yet the positive mindset that criticism, opinions, and advice can help us notice what we’d otherwise miss turns that energy into power.
It’s a powerful saying to remember when you want to press forward on the path you believe in.
Any genius is born of passion.Isaac D'Israeli
These are the words of Isaac D’Israeli, who distinguished himself as a literary critic and explored the nature of intellect and creativity.
They convey the idea that talent is not something we are born with, but something nurtured by passion.
In study, too, you don’t have to be good from the start.
The desire to stay curious and keep learning deepens understanding and strengthens ability.
Passion enables us to face difficulties, allowing growth to build over time.
Cherishing what you love becomes the driving force that expands your possibilities.
It is a famous saying that reveals the source of effort.
Genius is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration.Thomas Edison
The famous quote carries weight precisely because it comes from Thomas Edison, often called a genius: “Genius is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration.” It’s said this phrase can be interpreted in two ways: it doesn’t mean that geniuses don’t need to work hard, and it also doesn’t mean that you should throw yourself into effort without thinking.
Perhaps those we call geniuses achieve results because they think more deeply than anyone else and work harder than anyone else.
This is a quote worth knowing for anyone who feels their efforts aren’t bearing fruit yet.