During the conversation, you may have come across the term walk softly and carry a big stick, but what exactly is this term in reference to? We are going to examine the meaning of the phrase as well as looking at some examples to show how it can be used. We will also delve into the history of the term to find out where it first came from.
Walk Softly and Carry a Big Stick
Walk Softly and Carry a Big Stick Meaning
The meaning of the phrase walk softly and carry a big stick is to be gentle and kind but allow others to know that we will use physical force if necessary.
Origin of this English idiom
This phrase can be attributed to the former US president Theodore Roosevelt who coined the term in the 1800s.
“Walk Softly and Carry a Big Stick” Examples
Examples in Sentences
You will hear the term walk softly and carry a big stick on various occasions within a sentence, we are now going to look at some examples of what you are likely to hear.
The first is a statement being made by a father to his son.
- I know that you are annoyed at your friend, but don’t lash out just walk softly and carry a big stick.
This next example sentence is being said by one friend to another.
- You need to tackle this in the correct way and not become aggressive, my advice is to walk softly and carry a big stick.
Conversation Examples
Walk softly and carry a big stick is an American term which you are likely to see in many conversations, but how might it work? We are now going to take a look at some examples of conversations in which the phrase might be seen.
The first conversation is one between two people in the workplace.
- Person 1: “I am getting so worked up with people fighting in the workplace.”
- Person 2: “Yes, but there is no use in becoming aggressive over it.”
- Person 1: “But I may have to become aggressive and physically remove them from the premises.”
- Person 2: “In that case, just walk softly and carry a big stick.”
The next example of conversation is taking place between two soldiers.
- Person 1: “We are going into the town to show that we are there to protect but also to stop any trouble.”
- Person 2: “So, how should we act?”
- Person 1: “Just walk softly and carry a big stick.”
Other Ways to Say the Idiom
If you are looking for another way to express the meaning of the term walk softly and carry a big stick, you might consider saying one of the following things.
- Talk softly and carry a big stick.
- Speak softly and carry a big stick.
Walk Softly and Carry a Big Stick | Image
Last Updated on March 25, 2020
The original expression is, “Speak softly and carry a big stick; you will go far.” The idiom in common use is, “speak softly and carry a big stick.” “Walk softly and carry a big stick” is not in common usage.