Summary
This quote suggests that people often try to mask their negative qualities by using more positive terms to describe themselves. The timid person may perceive their reluctance as being cautious, implying a level of thoughtfulness and carefulness. Likewise, the sordid person may label their cheapness as being thrifty, attempting to give a positive connotation to their behavior. It highlights the tendency of individuals to use euphemisms or alternative words to portray themselves in a more favorable light, ultimately exemplifying the power of self-perception and selective language.