Witty quotes by great figures and celebrities where wordplay shines even in brevity
The powerful words of people who have accomplished something—like great figures and celebrities—can sometimes give us courage or blow away our worries.
On the other hand, they’ve also left behind countless quotes that make you think, “Ah, they’re human just like us,” and you can’t help but nod in agreement.
So this time, I’ve compiled a list of short but amusing quotes.
From wordplay and ideas that make you chuckle to a cynicism you can’t help but relate to, you’re sure to feel that each one is a true quote.
If the right moment comes, try using them when it counts!
Interesting quotes (1–10) by great and famous figures, where wordplay and wit shine even in their brevity.
If you don’t want to meet any fools, the first thing to do is break your own mirror.François Rabelais
François Rabelais, a 16th-century French writer known for Gargantua and Pantagruel, which satirically depicts human nature.
His works combine intellect and humor, often sprinkled with bold language.
This saying conveys the idea that before speaking ill of others, one should correct oneself.
We tend to lose sight of our own faults, but in such moments, looking into a mirror can help us regain composure.
A celebrated quote that shines with sharp satire and humor.
That’s fine—people should live their own way.NEW!Tarō Asō
https://www.tiktok.com/@animationmeigen/video/7456983026673716488It gently untangles the hearts of modern people who tend to be swayed by others’ values.
Everyone has their own environment and experiences, so it’s only natural that our ways of life differ.
There’s no meaning in judging someone’s choices as right or wrong; what matters most is whether that person is convinced and walking their own path.
If you keep conforming to the voices around you, you can lose sight of your own life.
Respecting others also leads to affirming your own way of living.
It’s a quote characteristic of Taro Aso, a longtime politician, showing the breadth to embrace diversity.
We can’t entrust the helm of the nation to someone who isn’t prepared to eat cold rice.NEW!Tarō Asō
It speaks directly to the gravity of power and position.
To “eat cold rice” is to accept a period of being unrecognized or to face headwinds.
Those who steer a nation must endure not only praise but also criticism and loneliness.
It confronts us with the harsh reality that one cannot serve with the resolve to step forward only when convenient and withdraw in difficult moments.
It shows that responsibility entails sacrifice and questions the quality of one’s resolve.
It also teaches that a stance that leaves no escape route is what earns trust.
This is a stern maxim that sets the conditions for those who take on heavy responsibility.
The part of a newspaper that tells the most truth is the advertisements.Thomas Jefferson
Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States and known as the principal author of the Declaration of Independence.
Though a politician, he was well-versed in a wide range of fields—including scholarship, philosophy, and architecture—and valued rational thought.
These words of his illustrate how easily reporting can become biased, making it difficult to discern the truth.
They embody the idea that advertisements have clear commercial objectives and, while they may be exaggerated, they cannot be outright false.
It is a famous remark that incisively captures the essence of journalism by urging us to look not only at what is printed in newspapers but also at the advertisements.
The only place where success comes before effort is in the dictionary.Vidal Sassoon
Vidal Sassoon, who revolutionized the beauty industry with his innovative haircutting techniques.
As a hairstylist and entrepreneur with many achievements, his words carry a straightforward message: success cannot be attained without effort.
The unique expression that only in the dictionary does success come before work leaves a strong impression.
Seeking results without putting in the work is an illusion; steady effort is what truly leads to real outcomes.
It’s a simple yet resonant quote that carries weight precisely because it comes from someone who reached the pinnacle of the beauty industry.
Happiness is being healthy and having a bad memory.Albert Schweitzer
Albert Schweitzer, who was a physician as well as a philosopher and musician, and a Nobel Peace Prize laureate.
He provided medical care in Africa and devoted his life to humanitarian aid.
His words convey the idea that being in good health is the fundamental prerequisite for happiness, and that not clinging to past suffering or regrets leads to peace of mind.
If one has too good a memory, one may too easily recall failures and sorrows and end up feeling unhappy.
It is a witty yet profound quotation that reflects his view of life.
My hardest battle was the one with my first wife.Muhammad Ali
Muhammad Ali was one of the greatest heavyweight champions in boxing history, a figure who transcended sports and influenced people around the world.
Known for his overwhelming skill and charisma, he was also famous for his provocative pre-fight remarks and performances with a unique rhythm.
His words, laced with humor and irony, suggest that for a man who kept battling formidable opponents across the globe, married life was tougher than fighting in the ring.
It’s a quote that shows life’s trials aren’t confined to the ring but exist at home as well, revealing a deeply human side of him.