An epigram is a concise and clever statement, verse, or saying that expresses a thought, observation, or witty remark in a succinct and impactful manner. It often contains a twist of thought, humor, or paradox, leaving the reader amused, enlightened, or contemplative. Epigrams are characterized by their brevity, making them easy to remember and share. They have been used throughout history to convey social commentary, satire, and insights into human nature.
Examples of Epigrams:
- “A little learning is a dangerous thing.” – Alexander Pope This epigram warns against the dangers of superficial knowledge, suggesting that a limited understanding can lead to misguided actions or beliefs.
- “I can resist everything except temptation.” – Oscar Wilde This humorous epigram showcases Wilde’s wit and paradoxically reveals the human struggle with self-control and desires.
- “Men marry women with the hope they will never change. Women marry men with the hope they will change. Invariably, they are both disappointed.” – Albert Einstein Einstein’s epigram humorously captures the humorous and often challenging dynamics of relationships.
- “In youth, we learn; in age, we understand.” – Marie von Ebner-Eschenbach This epigram highlights the difference between acquiring knowledge in youth and gaining wisdom through life experiences in old age.
- “I can’t understand why people are frightened of new ideas. I’m frightened of the old ones.” – John Cage This thought-provoking epigram challenges the resistance to change and encourages embracing new and innovative ideas.
- “Life is what happens to us while we are making other plans.” – Allen Saunders This famous epigram emphasizes the unpredictability of life, reminding us that unexpected events often shape our experiences.
- “He who hesitates is sometimes saved.” – James Thurber This epigram playfully suggests that taking one’s time to make a decision can occasionally lead to a fortunate outcome.
- “A day without laughter is a day wasted.” – Charlie Chaplin Chaplin’s epigram highlights the value of humor and laughter in enriching our lives.
- “Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind, and therefore is winged Cupid painted blind.” – William Shakespeare This epigram from “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” explores the idea that love is not solely based on physical appearance but is a product of the mind and emotions.
- “The only way to get rid of a temptation is to yield to it.” – Oscar Wilde In this playful epigram, Wilde humorously acknowledges the allure of temptation and the temptation to give in to it.


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