⁴ A wicked person listens to deceitful lips;
    a liar pays attention to a destructive tongue.

⁹ Whoever would foster love covers over an offense,^(A)
    but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.^(B)

¹⁴ Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam;
    so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out.^(A)

¹⁹ Whoever loves a quarrel loves sin;
    whoever builds a high gate invites destruction.

²⁰ One whose heart is corrupt does not prosper;
    one whose tongue is perverse falls into trouble.

²⁷ The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint,^(A)
    and whoever has understanding is even-tempered.^(B)

²⁸ Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent,
    and discerning if they hold their tongues.^(C)

³ It is to one’s honor to avoid strife,
    but every fool^(A) is quick to quarrel.^(B)

¹⁹ A gossip betrays a confidence;^(A)
    so avoid anyone who talks too much.

⁶ A fortune made by a lying tongue
    is a fleeting vapor and a deadly snare.^[a](A)

²³ Those who guard their mouths^(A) and their tongues
    keep themselves from calamity.^(B)