"It is a great act of cleverness to be able to conceal one's being clever"

This quote by Francois de La Rochefoucauld speaks with the value of being able to mask one's intelligence. It suggests that it is an excellent accomplishment to be able to conceal one's cleverness, as it can be seen as a sign of strength and power. This quote implies that it is much better to be underestimated than overstated, as it can be easier to shock people with one's intelligence when they least anticipate it. It also recommends that it is necessary to be able to read a circumstance and understand when to flaunt one's intelligence and when to keep it concealed. Having the ability to hide one's cleverness can be a great asset in lots of scenarios, as it can assist one to gain the advantage in settlements or conversations. It can likewise be beneficial in social situations, as it can assist one to appear more humble and friendly. Ultimately, this quote talks to the importance of being able to manage one's intelligence and use it tactically.