Pride And Prejudice Quotes + Their Meanings/Explanations

"Pride and Prejudice Quotes" is a phrase that encapsulates the timeless wisdom and profound insights found within Jane Austen's classic novel, Pride and Prejudice. This quote serves as a reminder of the power of prejudice and the destructive nature of pride, both of which are explored throughout the book.

Through her memorable characters and their engaging dialogue, Austen unravels the complexities of human relationships, showcasing how the overbearing pride and ingrained prejudice can hinder personal growth, hinder understanding, and hinder true love. These quotes serve as a reflection of Austen's keen observations on society, highlighting the enduring themes of love, self-reflection, and the importance of looking beyond initial judgments.

Below are various pride and prejudice quotes with their meanings/explanations;

“If I had ever learnt, I should have been a great proficient.” - Pride and Prejudice

We humans are creatures of habit. Whether it be eating the same breakfast every day, or walking to the same spot to take a break, our routines often become ingrained in our lives. However, sometimes we need to shake things up a bit, and learn new things in order to continue progressing.

“You want to tell me, and I have no objection to hearing it.” - 

Pride and Prejudice

Every day, thousands of people reveal their deepest secrets to strangers on social media. Sometimes, what people say is meant to be shared with only those who know about the person's life, and sometimes it's just a funny story. But what if you wanted to tell your friends and family

“Have a little compassion on my nerves. You tear them to pieces.” - Pride and Prejudice

People have a lot of nerve. They can be so quick to judge and criticize. It's no wonder our nerves get torn to pieces from all the stress and tension we experience on a daily basis. Sometimes it's best just to have a little compassion on our nerves and try to understand why they act the way they do.

“And you are never to stir out of doors till you can prove that you have spent ten minutes of every day in a rational manner.” - Pride and Prejudice

It has long been known that spending time outdoors in nature can have a positive impact on one's mental health and well-being. However, for some people who are struggling with mental health issues or simply don't have the time to spend outside every day, this may not be an option. Fortunately, there are many ways to enjoy nature without leaving the comfort of your home. One way is to set up a relaxing environment in your home by using plants and candles to create a calming atmosphere.

“Angry people are not always wise.” - Pride and Prejudice

Angry people are not always wise. They may lash out at others or make rash decisions in anger. But there are times when being angry can be a good thing. Anger can motivate people to take action and fight for what they believe in. It can help us clarify our thoughts and emotions, and it can help us defend ourselves.

“Nothing is more deceitful than the appearance of humility. It is often only carelessness of opinion, and sometimes an indirect boast.” - Pride and Prejudice

Many times, people will outwardly portray humility in order to gain the trust and respect of others. However, this behavior can be deceptive, as oftentimes it is only a carelessness of opinion or an indirect boast. People who display this type of behavior often come across as being weaker than they really are, which can ultimately lead to them being taken advantage of. It is important to be aware of these cues so that you can better protect yourself from being deceived.

“A person who can write a long letter with ease, cannot write ill.” - Pride and Prejudice

Many people do not think that someone who can write a long letter with ease, cannot write ill. In fact, many experts believe that writing well is essential for any person, regardless of their ability to write well. Anyone can improve their writing skills by practicing regularly and paying attention to the different techniques that work best for them.

“We all know him to be a proud, unpleasant sort of man; but this would be nothing if you really liked him.” - Pride and Prejudice

He's always so proud and unpleasant, but deep down, many people like him. Even his harshest critics can't help but be drawn to his charisma. His quirks and habits are endearing, even if they make others cringe.

“How little of permanent happiness could belong to a couple who were only brought together because their passions were stronger than their virtue.”- Pride and Prejudice

Despite years of happy marriage, the two were constantly fighting because one of them would always try to override the other. They were both passionate about their work and didn't have time for each other. In the end, their virtue was what sustained them but it wasn't permanent happiness.

“There certainly was some great mismanagement in the education of those two young men. One has got all the goodness, and the other all the appearance of it.” - Pride and Prejudice

Two young men, both apparently of good character, have very different educations. The one has all the goodness, and the other all the appearance of it. But there was great mismanagement in their education.

“‘Keep your breath to cool your porridge’; and I shall keep mine to swell my song.” - Pride and Prejudice

The summer heat can be unbearable, but it's nothing compared to the heat of the kitchen. In the summer, many people turn to air conditioning, which can be expensive and time-consuming. There are other, more natural ways to stay cool, like using fans or staying in the shade. One easy way to keep your breath cool is to drink water with lemon juice in it. This will help to keep your mouth and throat cool and reduce the chance of getting sick.

“I am no longer surprised at your knowing only six accomplished women. I rather wonder now at your knowing any.” - Pride and Prejudice

In recent years, it has become more and more common to see people who know only six accomplished women. Women have made great strides in many different areas of life, and it seems that those who know only a few women who have accomplished something are now in the minority. It is hard to believe that someone could know so few accomplished women, and yet that is exactly the case with some people.

“Vanity and pride are different things, though the words are often used synonymously. A person may be proud without being vain. Pride relates more to our opinion of ourselves; vanity, to what we would have others think of us.” - Pride and Prejudice

Vanity and pride can both be good or bad things. A person may be proud without being vain, while vanity relates more to what we would have others think of us. Vanity is often connected with how we view ourselves, while pride is more about our opinion of ourselves. There are different types of vanity, and each one has its own positive and negative aspects.

“I do not find it easy to talk to people I don’t know.” - Pride and Prejudice

We find it difficult to talk to people we don't know. It's hard to get started, and we often feel like we're not good at it. But talking is actually one of the most important things we can do. It can help us connect with others, learn new information, and solve problems.

“Nobody can tell what I suffer! But it is always so. Those who do not complain are never pitied.” - Pride and Prejudice

No one can tell what we suffer! But it is always so. Those who do not complain are never pitied. Even when life doesn't go our way, we have to keep going because nothing will bring us down. Complaining gets the negative feeling out of our system, and eventually we'll be able to move on and enjoy our lives more.

“There is a stubbornness about me that never can bear to be frightened at the will of others. My courage always rises at every attempt to intimidate me.” - Pride and Prejudice

There is a stubbornness about us that never can bear to be frightened at the will of others. Our courage always rises at every attempt to intimidate us. We have a natural inclination to stand up against anything that tries to intimidate us, no matter what the cost. This stubbornness has helped us survive in a world where intimidation and violence are commonplace. It is this determination that allows us to persist and overcome any obstacle.

“One word from you shall silence me forever.”- Pride and Prejudice

This is a rhetorical sentence. It means that whatever the speaker says will be enough to stop the other person from speaking.

“You may ask questions which I shall not choose to answer.” – Jane Austen

You may ask questions which we shall not choose to answer. This is because they are nonsensical, irrelevant, or aimed at embarrassing us.

“I must learn to be content with being happier than I deserve.” - Pride and Prejudice

There is something to be said for happiness. The more content we are with our current state, the better we function. It is important to remember that it is okay to be happy with what we have, and not always strive for more. Learning to be content with what we have instead of always looking for something else can make us happier in the long run.

“Everything nourishes what is strong already” - Pride and Prejudice

Nourishment comes in all forms, some more obvious than others. But like anything else, what sustains and strengthens what is already strong can often go unnoticed. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to the things that give our lives a sense of balance and harmony. There are many things in life that can help us grow and thrive.

“My good opinion once lost is lost forever.” – Jane Austen

Good opinions can be hard to come by, but once you have them, they're hard to lose. It can be easy to convince yourself that your opinion is the only good one, and that anyone who disagrees with you is automatically wrong. But if you attach too much importance to your good opinion, it can be difficult to change your mind when new information comes along. The key is to remember that opinions are just that- opinions- and not facts.

“I am happier than Jane; she only smiles, and I laugh. Mr. Darcy sends you all the love in the world, that he can spare from me.” - Pride and Prejudice

Mr. Darcy has finally found someone to make him as happy as he is miserable - his friend Jane. She only smiles, and Mr. Darcy sends her all the love in the world that he can spare from his true love, Elizabeth Bennet.

“You expect me to account for opinions which you choose to call mine, but which I have never acknowledged.”- Pride and Prejudice

This is an old problem that we face in our society - the tendency for people to believe that the opinions of those that they respect must be correct, no matter how implausible or absurd they might seem.

“Is not general incivility the very essence of love?” - 

Pride and Prejudice

Love is often portrayed as a gentle and caring emotion, but is that really what it is? New research suggests that incivility may be the very essence of love. Incivility, or the lack of concern for the feelings of others, is seen as a sign of strength and dominance in relationships. It's thought that this type of behavior is necessary for individuals to protect themselves and their loved ones from harm. This could mean that incivility is actually a key part of love.

“They parted at last with mutual civility, and possibly a mutual desire of never meeting again.” – Jane Austen

The two people had never spoken before, but they knew each other by sight. They were both in their early twenties and of similar builds and coloring. Each had their own reasons for avoiding the other, but one day they crossed paths in a crowded subway station and stopped dead in their tracks. Neither spoke, but they both knew what was going to happen next. They parted ways with mutual civility, and maybe even a mutual desire of never meeting again.

“I declare after all there is no enjoyment like reading! How much sooner one tires of anything than of a book! - When I have a house of my own, I shall be miserable if I have not an excellent library.” - Pride and Prejudice

There's no doubt that reading can be a very enjoyable experience. In fact, it can be so enjoyable that one may quickly tire of reading anything else. This is especially true if one has the opportunity to read books regularly. When one owns their own house, they will likely have an excellent library that they can enjoy.

“I have the highest respect for your nerves, they are my old friends.” - Pride and Prejudice

Although we can’t see them, our nerves are constantly working. Each nerve sends electrical signals to our brains, letting us know when something is wrong. When everything is working properly, these signals keep us safe and help us feel confident. But sometimes nerves can get messed up, which can lead to problems like anxiety or panic attacks. We have the highest respect for your nerves, they are our old friends.

“To be fond of dancing was a certain step towards falling in love” - Pride and Prejudice

To be fond of dancing was a certain step towards falling in love. Dancing allowed people to connect on a deeper level and showed what they had in common. It also helped people to feel good about themselves, which was important for those who were looking for love. Dancing represented tradition and culture, which made it a popular way to find someone to date.

“A scheme of which every part promises delight, can never be successful; and general disappointment is only warded off by the defense of some little peculiar vexation.” – Jane Austen

No one is immune to the feeling of disappointment. Whether it's after a failed romantic relationship, or when we don't receive what we wanted in life, disappointment is an unavoidable part of life. In some cases, disappointment can be frustrating and lead to general unhappiness. However, there are also ways to combat disappointment and keep it at bay. One way is to have a scheme that promises great delight without fail.

“We do not suffer by accident.”- Pride and Prejudice

People often say that we do not suffer by accident. This is not true. We suffer because we allow ourselves to be victimized by our own minds and emotions. We suffer because we do not take responsibility for our lives. We suffer because we are afraid to be unhappy.

“A lady’s imagination is very rapid; it jumps from admiration to love, from love to matrimony in a moment.”- Pride and Prejudice

It is no secret that women's imaginations are much more rapid than men's. This is evident in how quickly women can jump from admiration to love, from love to matrimony in a moment. While it may take men longer to develop strong feelings for someone, once they do, they tend to be much more steadfast in their commitment. In this way, women's imaginations allow them to enjoy the courtship process more fully and ultimately create happier relationships.

“They walked on, without knowing in what direction. There was too much to be thought, and felt, and said, for attention to any other objects.”- Pride and Prejudice

The scene unfolding before them was both familiar and foreign at the same time. The sun was setting, casting a beautiful orange hue across the sky, and the crisp air was pleasantly chilly. Still, despite all of this, they could feel something burning inside of them- a fire that refused to be extinguished. It was this passion that kept them walking forward even when they had no idea where they were going.

“The distance is nothing when one has a motive.” - 

Pride and Prejudice

If you have a motive, the distance between you and your goal is nothing.

“She is tolerable, but not handsome enough to tempt me; I am in no humor at present to give consequence to young ladies who are slighted by other men.” - Pride and Prejudice

A woman's attractiveness is not the only factor that men consider when deciding if they are in the mood to pursue a relationship with her. Men are also more likely to be attracted to women who are not considered conventionally attractive by society. This has led some people to speculate that being unappealing to other men may be a sign of strength and independence in women.

“Her heart did whisper that he had done it for her.” – Jane Austen

Intuition whispers to us, often in the form of gut feelings or flashes of insight. These little nudges can be incredibly helpful when it comes to problem solving, but they can also be difficult to trust. Why do our intuitions sometimes prove correct, and other times signal something we should avoid? Scientists are still searching for the answer to this question, but they are increasingly recognizing the importance of intuition in our lives.

“It’s been many years since I had such an exemplary vegetable.” - Pride and Prejudice

The last time we had an exemplary vegetable was probably cucumbers in the late 1970s. Today, there are so many incredible choices for vegetables that it can be hard to know where to start. But we think we've found the perfect place to start: with baby carrots!

“If a woman is partial to a man, and does not endeavor to conceal it, he must find it out.”-Elizabeth” - Pride and Prejudice

If a woman is partial to a man, and does not endeavor to conceal it, he must find it out. This is simply the way things are, and there is no escaping it. Men are visual creatures and will instinctively notice when a woman is drawn to them; whether she likes it or not is irrelevant. While some may try to ignore this fact, most men who are interested in women will eventually figure it out.

“One cannot be always laughing at a man without now and then stumbling on something witty.”- Pride and Prejudice

Humor has been a strong component of human culture from the beginning. It allows us to cope with the challenges of everyday life and connect with others.

“I am only resolved to act in that manner, which will, in my own opinion, constitute my happiness, without reference to you, or to any person so wholly unconnected with me.” - Pride and Prejudice

It has often been said that one's happiness is best achieved when it is pursued without reference to others. This is a philosophy that many people adhere to, for it allows for a sense of independence and self-reliance. However, this approach can be difficult to maintain in the face of relationships and interactions with others. For some, it is easier to put their happiness into consideration when making decisions.

“We are all fools in love” - Pride and Prejudice

When we are in love, we are all fools. We do things that we wouldn't normally do and say things that we would never say. We are completely irrational and our judgement is clouded. This is why it's so hard to break out of a relationship that is not working. We have been brainwashed into thinking that this is the only thing that matters in life.

“A girl likes to be crossed a little in love now and then. It is something to think of” - Pride and Prejudice

Crossing a line in love isn't always easy, but it can be really beautiful. For some people, it's a way to spice up their relationships a little bit and add a little danger. Crossing that line can also be a way for two people to connect on a deeper level. It's definitely something to think about!

“It sometimes is a disadvantage to be so very guarded. If a woman conceals her affection from the object of it, she may lose the opportunity of fixing him.”- Pride and Prejudice

Many women are guarded when they are in love because they don't want to seem too needy or desperate. This can often be a disadvantage, as it may prevent the man from fixing on her and making a move. If she is too guarded, the man may not realize that she is interested in him and he might not be able to take advantage of the situation.

“Oh, Lizzy! do anything rather than marry without affection.” - Pride and Prejudice

If you are considering whether or not to marry someone, and you don't feel affection for them, do anything rather than marry them. You will regret it in the long run. Marrying someone without love is a mistake that can never be fixed.

“I have been meditating on the very great pleasure which a pair of fine eyes in the face of a pretty woman can bestow.” - Pride and Prejudice

The eyes are the windows to the soul, and there's no greater pleasure than being able to behold a beautiful woman and feel her soul shining through her eyes. Whether you're looking into her eyes for a long moment, or just enjoying a brief glance, those eyes can put a smile on your face.

“It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife.” - Pride and Prejudice

Single men have long been known to be in search of a wife, and according to the saying, this is true for a good reason. A single man with a lot of money can easily fall into debt and need someone to help take care of him. Without someone to help support him, he would likely be forced to give up his fortune.

“I have no pretensions whatever to that kind of elegance which consists in tormenting a respectable man.” - Pride and Prejudice

We have no pretensions whatever to that kind of elegance which consists in tormenting a respectable man for the amusement of a few. We only aim at being as coarse and direct as possible. We hope you will pardon our bluntness, and not be offended with us on that account.

“… handsome young men must have something to live on as well as the plain.” - Pride and Prejudice

There is no denying that handsome young men are often the center of attention. This can be a good thing, as it can lead to career opportunities and happy lives. However, many times this attention comes at a cost, as many young men must have something to live on as well. This can be anything from an impressive bank account to a beautiful home.

“I have been used to consider poetry as the food of love” - 

Pride and Prejudice

Poetry has always been considered as the food of love. It has been used to express one's feelings and emotions. Over the years, it has also been used as a form of communication. This is why most people consider poetry to be a form of art.

“Do not give way to useless alarm; though it is right to be prepared for the worst, there is no occasion to look on it as certain.” - 

Pride and Prejudice

Though it is right to be prepared for the worst, there is no occasion to look at it as certain. By following a few simple guidelines, you can reduce the chances of being caught off guard by an emergency and preserve your peace of mind.

“Do not be in a hurry, the right man will come at last” - 

Pride and Prejudice

There is a certain wisdom that comes with age, and one of the things it has taught me is to not be in a hurry. It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, but if we want the right man to come into our lives, we need to slow down and take our time. Life is too short to be chasing after things that won't make us happy.

“Do not consider me now as an elegant female, intending to play you, but as a rational creature, speaking the truth from her heart.” - 

Pride and Prejudice

When most people think of elegant women, they envision someone who is both beautiful and seductive. However, some women are not content with being just one or the other. These women are confident and know that they can be independent and powerful without needing to resort to being manipulative.

“It is very often nothing but our own vanity that deceives us.” - Pride and Prejudice

Vanity is a very common problem in people. We often deceive ourselves into thinking that we are important, that we are something special, when in reality, we are nothing more than vanity's pawns.

“But people themselves alter so much, that there is something new to be observed in them forever.” - Pride and Prejudice

People change over time, and so it is always interesting to look at people and see what new things you can observe in them. Whether it be a personality trait that changes or something more subtle, there is always something new to be seen in people.

“… it is better to know as little as possible of the defects of the person with whom you are about to pass your life.” - Pride and Prejudice

Knowing too much about a person can be a dangerous thing. It can make you feel safe, but also complacent. It can also lead to assumptions and judgments that may not be accurate. It's always better to know as little as possible about the defects of the person with whom you are going to spend the rest of your life.

“The more I see of the world, the more I am dissatisfied with it; and every day confirms my belief of the inconsistencies of all humans.” - 

Pride and Prejudice

The more we see the world, the more we are dissatisfied with it. The inconsistencies of all human behavior continue to amaze and frustrate us. Every day confirms our belief that humans are inconsistent, irrational, and ultimately vain.

“Follies and nonsense, whims and inconsistencies, do divert me, I own, and I laugh at them whenever I can.” - Pride and Prejudice

We humans are creatures of habit. We like things to be consistent, orderly, and predictable. But sometimes life throws us curveballs, and we have to adapt to new circumstances. This is where follies and nonsense come in. Follies and nonsense are things that don't make sense, but we can enjoy them anyway because they're amusing. They can also serve as a way to explore our own boundaries, which can be fun.

“Have you any other objection than your belief of my indifference?”- Pride and Prejudice

The author asks a rhetorical question that insinuates that the person he is speaking to has more than just a belief in his indifference, but also has an actual object to their opposition. The author goes on to ask if there are any other reasons why the person would be opposed to the idea of the author's indifference.

“She was convinced that she could have been happy with him when it was no longer likely they should meet.” - Pride and Prejudice

She was convinced that she could have been happy with him when it was no longer likely they should meet. She thought back to when they first met, and how happy and in love they both seemed. The years passed and he changed, but she refused to give up on them. They met again by chance and reconnected. This time, however, she knew it wasn't going to work out.

“The wisest and the best of men, nay, the wisest and best of their actions, may be rendered ridiculous by a person whose first object in life is a joke.” - Pride and Prejudice

The saying "the wisest and the best of men, nay, the wisest and best of their actions, may be rendered ridiculous by a person whose first object in life is a joke" is one that has been around for quite some time. It is typically used to describe someone who does not take things seriously and who is more interested in having fun than being serious.

“I am the happiest creature in the world. Perhaps other people have said so before, but not one with such justice. I am happier even than Jane; she only smiles, I laugh.” - Pride and Prejudice

We humans are the happiest creatures on Earth. Our society and culture frown upon happiness, but research shows that there are many reasons to be happy. We are social animals and need to feel connected to others in order to be happy. Our natural environment provides us with everything we need to be happy- it is nurturing, safe, and supportive. In addition, our mental health is important, and it is essential that we have access to quality mental health services.

“What a shame, for I dearly love to laugh.” - Pride and Prejudice

Humor is one of the most important qualities in life. It can make us enjoy our experiences, and it can keep us from getting too stressed out. Unfortunately, not everyone has a sense of humor. This can be really disappointing, because we dearly love to laugh. Luckily, there are plenty of things that can make us laugh, even if we don't have a sense of humor ourselves.

“I am determined that only the deepest love will induce me into matrimony. So, I shall end an old maid, and teach your ten children to embroider cushions and play their instruments very ill.” - Pride and Prejudice

Love is the one thing that can make people do crazy things. Whether it be sacrificing their own needs for the other person, or putting up with years of bad behavior, people will do anything to keep their relationship alive. But what happens when love no longer satisfies? What happens when two people no longer feel the same way about each other? What happens when one person decides they want a divorce? It's time we faced the reality that not all love is equal.

“There are very few who have heart enough to be really in love without encouragement.”- Pride and Prejudice

Love is something that we all hope to find one day. It is said that love is the most wonderful thing in the world, and it can be very refreshing. However, not everyone has the heart to be really in love without encouragement. Many people are too scared to take the plunge because they do not know how to handle rejection. Even though it may seem scary at first, being in a relationship with someone who truly loves you will be worth it.

“I certainly have not the talent which some people possess, of conversing easily with those I have never seen before.”- Pride and Prejudice

Most people find it easy to chat with people they know. However, some people are more talented than others when it comes to talking to strangers. Some people are able to strike up a conversation with anyone, no matter how unfamiliar they may seem. Others find it difficult to converse with anyone they don't know well. There are many reasons for this difference in talent, but one of the most common is that we have not been taught how to do this.

“In nine cases out of ten a woman had better show more affection than she feels.” - Pride and Prejudice

In general, men believe that women should show more affection than they feel. This is especially true in the bedroom. Nine out of ten times, when a woman feels less affection than her partner desires, it is because she isn't expressing herself or communicating properly. As a result, she may be mistaken for being distant or uninterested in the relationship.

“You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you.-Mr. Darcy” - Pride and Prejudice

We cannot express enough how much we admire and love you. We know that you are a kind, caring person who puts others before yourself. You are always there to help those in need, and you are a valuable member of our community. We hope that you know how much we appreciate everything you do for us, and we hope that you continue to be a wonderful person.

“You must learn some of my philosophy. Think only of the past as its remembrance gives you pleasure.” - Pride and Prejudice

Anyone who has ever had a close relationship knows that there is something special about the moments when memories overlap and one person tells a story while the other listens raptly. For many of us, these memories are what give our lives meaning and make us happy. What we choose to do with this knowledge is up to us. Some people focus on the present and enjoy every moment they are in because they know that each day is a new opportunity to experience something new.

Other Quotes

Pride Quotes

Priority Quotes

Procrastination Quotes

Productivity Quotes