15 A ^(A)gentle answer turns away wrath,
But a ^[a](B)harsh word stirs up anger.
² The ^(C)tongue of the wise makes knowledge pleasant,
But the ^(D)mouth of fools spouts foolishness.

⁴ A ^[a]soothing tongue is a tree of life,
But perversion in it ^[b]crushes the spirit.

⁷ The lips of the wise spread knowledge,
But the hearts of fools are not so.

²³ A ^(A)person has joy in an ^[a]apt answer,
And how delightful is a timely ^(B)word!

²⁶ Evil plans are an abomination to the Lord,
But pleasant words are pure.