Definition

1. Noun:
   • A short, pithy, instructive saying: An "apophthegm" is a concise, memorable, and often profound statement that expresses a general truth or piece of wisdom. It is similar to an aphorism or maxim.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • "The ancient philosopher was known for his apophthegms, which his students would diligently record."
  • "Her speech was filled with clever apophthegms that summarized complex ideas in a single line."
  • "The book is a collection of moral apophthegms from various cultures."

Advanced Usage

• As a rhetorical device: An apophthegm is often used in writing and speech to deliver wisdom or a moral lesson in a strikingly brief and forceful manner.
  • The essay's power lay not in lengthy arguments but in its concluding apophthegm.

Variants and Related Words

• Apothegm (noun): An alternative, chiefly North American, spelling of "apophthegm." The meaning is identical.
  • Benjamin Franklin's "Poor Richard's Almanack" is famous for its apothegms.
• Aphorism (noun): A concise statement of a principle or truth; a very close synonym.
• Maxim (noun): A general truth or rule of conduct expressed in a short sentence.
• Adage (noun): A proverb or short statement expressing a general truth.

Synonyms

• Aphorism: A pithy observation containing a general truth.
• Maxim: A short, pithy statement expressing a general truth or rule of behavior.
• Adage: A proverb or short statement expressing a general truth.
• Saying: A short, commonly known expression that embodies a common observation.

Related Idioms or Phrases

(Note: "Apophthegm" itself is a specific term and is not typically part of common idioms or phrasal verbs. Its usage is primarily as a standalone noun.)

Noun

1. a short pithy instructive saying