The Master said, “In language, it is enough that words convey meaning clearly.”
Note
This saying from the Analects of Confucius – Lunyu expresses his core view on verbal expression: prioritize substance over style; seek clarity, avoid ostentation.
“It is enough that words convey meaning clearly” emphasizes that the fundamental function of language is to communicate ideas and intentions – not to display rhetorical flair or ornate phrasing. As long as the message is clear, accurate, and appropriate, the purpose of speech is fulfilled; excessive embellishment is unnecessary.
This stance responds to the trend in the Spring and Autumn period where some scholars prized flowery diction and empty eloquence. Confucius believed that excessive focus on style could obscure true intent and even become a tool of deception – what he called ‘clever words and ingratiating expressions,’ which ‘seldom denote true humaneness’ (Analects 1.3).
However, “conveying meaning clearly” does not mean advocating crudeness or carelessness. Rather, it calls for just-right expression – neither so terse as to cause misunderstanding, nor so verbose as to bore or confuse. This aligns with his teaching in Analects 6.18: “When natural simplicity and cultural refinement are properly balanced, then one becomes a noble person.” Substance and form must harmonize, with clarity as the goal.
In writing and speaking, “clarity of meaning” means centering the audience – pursuing effective communication rather than self-display. This pragmatic, restrained view of language profoundly shaped later Chinese literary criticism, which valued “substance over ornament” and “brevity as virtue.”
More deeply, this saying also reflects the Confucian ideal of sincerity: language should honestly express one’s inner thoughts, without pretense or exaggeration. True cultivation lies not in eloquence, but in moral depth and intellectual clarity.
In short, Confucius teaches: In speech and writing, what matters is conveying meaning; once meaning is clear, no further ornament is needed.
Further Reading
The Master said, “Clever words and ingratiating expressions – rarely do they indicate true humaneness!” Analects 1.3 (Xue Er)
Both warn against prioritizing pleasing form over sincere substance in speech.
The Master said, “When natural simplicity outweighs cultural refinement, one is rustic; when refinement outweighs simplicity, one is bookish. Only when refinement and simplicity are well-balanced is one a noble person.” Analects 6.18 (Yong Ye)
Reinforces that effective expression requires balance – clarity (“substance”) and appropriateness (“form”) must coexist, with neither dominating.
The Master said, “Those who possess virtue will surely have meaningful words; those who have eloquent words need not possess virtue.” Analects 14.4 (Xian Wen)
Distinguishes between morally grounded speech and mere verbal skill – supporting the idea that “clarity of meaning” stems from inner virtue, not rhetorical talent.
Sima Niu asked about humaneness. The Master said, “The humane person is cautious in speech.” Analects 12.3 (Yan Yuan)
Highlights restraint in speech – consistent with avoiding excess and focusing on meaningful, measured expression.
子曰：「辭達而已矣。」
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