汉英对照《增广贤文》（113）

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His father should keep them from being shown;

When a father has faults,

His child should apply immediate persuasion.

Wood can be cut straight

Because it is marked by an ink thread¹.

People can become sage

Because they accept criticism.

Good medicine cures your sickness

Although it tastes bitter,

Good advice benefits your conduct

Although it sounds unpleasant.

Give no credence to rumours,

Give no publicity to domestic shames.

The realities of a lower position

Are unfamiliar to people in a higher position,

So a real gentleman

Does not consider it a shame

To ask his inferiors for instruction.

(1) A traditional Chinese carpenter uses an ink thread to mark a piece of wood before making it straight.