speak softly and carry a big stick

تعریف و معنای "[speak] softly (and|but) [carry] a big stick"

to speak softly and carry a big stick

مهربان اما قاطع بودن

to approach situations calmly and diplomatically while also having the strength and power to take action if necessary

to [speak] softly (and|but) [carry] a big stick definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "speak softly carry a big stick" and when to use it?

The idiom "speak softly carry a big stick" is attributed to former U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt and was popularized during his presidency (1901-1909). The full expression is "speak softly and carry a big stick," although it is sometimes shortened to "speak softly but carry a big stick." The phrase embodies a diplomatic approach backed by the strength and willingness to use force if necessary. This idiom is commonly used in discussions related to diplomacy, negotiation, and foreign policy, but can also be applied more generally to situations where a combination of soft speech and underlying strength is advocated.

مثال

In negotiations, it's important to speak softly and carry a big stick, conveying a desire for compromise while maintaining leverage.

I speak softly and carry a big stick to maintain a peaceful atmosphere.

The CEO's management style is to speak softly but carry a big stick, fostering a cooperative work environment while ensuring effective decision-making and accountability.

She speaks softly and carries a big stick to assert her authority when necessary.