In the Analects, Confucius says: “The gentleman wishes to be slow in speech and quick in action.” (君子欲讷于言而敏于行) He says that being firm, resolute, simple and slow of speech “is close to humaneness.” And: “Clever words and a pleasing face are seldom found with humaneness.” (巧言令色，鲜矣仁)
To a disciple who asked how to obtain an official post, he gave this advice: “Hear much, leave aside what is doubtful, and speak with care about the rest. Then there will be few mistakes.” (多闻阙疑，慎言其余，则寡尤)