Definition

1. Noun:
   • A short, pithy, instructive saying: An aphorism is a concise, memorable statement that expresses a general truth, principle, or observation about life or human nature. It is often philosophical or moral in nature.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • "The aphorism 'know thyself' is attributed to ancient Greek philosophers."
  • "Her speech was filled with witty aphorisms about the art of living."
  • "He is known for coining the aphorism 'less is more' in design."

Advanced Usage

• "To coin an aphorism": to create or invent a new concise, wise saying.
  • The author has a talent for coining aphorisms that capture the spirit of the age.
• "As the old aphorism goes": a phrase used to introduce a well-known saying.
  • As the old aphorism goes, "actions speak louder than words."

Variants and Related Words

• Aphoristic (adj): having the characteristics of an aphorism; concise and full of meaning.
  • His writing style is very aphoristic.
• Aphorist (n): a person who creates or uses aphorisms.
  • Benjamin Franklin was a famous American aphorist.

Synonyms

• Maxim: A short, pithy statement expressing a general truth or rule of conduct.
• Adage: A proverb or short statement expressing a general truth.
• Saying: A short, commonly known expression that generally offers advice or wisdom.
• Proverb: A short, traditional saying that expresses a perceived truth based on common sense or experience.

Related Phrases

• "To live by an aphorism": to use a saying as a guiding principle in one's life.
  • She tries to live by the aphorism "treat others as you wish to be treated."

Related Idioms

• "Brevity is the soul of wit": This idiom itself is an aphorism, meaning that concise, clever language is the essence of good humor and intelligence. It highlights the value of being brief, which is a key feature of an aphorism.

Noun

1. a short pithy instructive saying