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sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me

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English

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Alternative forms

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Etymology

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The earliest recording dates from March 1862 in the US, but is implied to have been used earlier.[1]

Pronunciation

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Phrase

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sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me

  1. (idiomatic) A response to taunting proclaiming the speaker's indifference.
    Synonym: the pen is mightier than the sword
    Antonym: the tongue wounds more than a lance

Usage notes

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  • Mostly used by young children.

Translations

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See also

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References

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