Moneycontrol PRO
LAMF
LAMF

Quote of the day by Arundhati Roy: “That's what careless words do. They make people…”

Speaking recklessly Is dangerous. Arundhati Rory’s quote is a reminder that words matter. When you speak without thinking, you may hurt someone’s feelings. Sometimes, you may not even notice the damage right away, but small, careless words can slowly reduce the love, trust, and respect people feel for you.
February 17, 2026 / 08:44 IST
Arundhati Roy, an acclaimed Indian author and activist, is best known for her Booker Prize-winning novel, 'The God of Small Things'. (Picture: X)
Snapshot AI
  • Arundhati Roy says careless words can harm relationships
  • Kindness and patience help love grow, not sarcasm or rudeness
  • Thinking before speaking protects and strengthens bonds

Many people believe that strong relationships can survive anything. They think love is enough to ignore small rude comments or jokes. But author Arundhati Roy explains that love is delicate. It grows through kindness, patience, and understanding. At the same time, it can shrink because of sarcasm, harsh criticism, or thoughtless remarks.

Arundhati Roy, an acclaimed Indian author and activist, is best known for her Booker Prize-winning novel, The God of Small Things. Her work allows her to explore the subtle yet profound ways in which human relationships and societal structures intersect. Roy’s unique voice captures both the beauty and the fragility of human connections.

Also read: Quote of the day by Osho: “Love is not a relationship. Love is a state of being...”

What does the quote mean?

Roy’s quote, “That's what careless words do. They make people love you a little less” shows that many people may often speak without pausing to think. They forget that careless words can stay for a long time. Even if you did not mean to hurt someone, your rude words can still leave a mark on their heart. Words, Roy says, are not light or empty. They have weight and can break people down. A rude tone, an unfair comment, or ignoring someone’s feelings can slowly damage that bond.

Here are some simple lessons from this quote

Roy’s message teaches you to be more careful with how you speak. Before you respond in anger, you should pause. When emotions are high, it is easy to say something you may regret later. Taking a short moment to think can prevent long-lasting hurt.

  • What and how you say things can impact your relationship in a positive or negative way.
  • It is important to refrain from speaking in a rude tone when you are angry. Speak slowly and calmly.
  • Through kind words, you show respect, love, and care.
  • You can hurt feelings with your words, and repairing that hurt can take time.
  • Being aware of your words helps you protect your relationships.

Also read: Quote of the day by Shiv Nadar: “If you are calm about your ambitions, you become confident of achieving what you set out to do”

Namita S Kalla is a senior journalist who writes about different aspects of modern life that include lifestyle, health, fashion, beauty, and entertainment.
first published: Feb 17, 2026 08:43 am

Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!

Subscribe to Tech Newsletters

  • On Saturdays

    Find the best of Al News in one place, specially curated for you every weekend.

  • Daily-Weekdays

    Stay on top of the latest tech trends and biggest startup news.

Advisory Alert: It has come to our attention that certain individuals are representing themselves as affiliates of Moneycontrol and soliciting funds on the false promise of assured returns on their investments. We wish to reiterate that Moneycontrol does not solicit funds from investors and neither does it promise any assured returns. In case you are approached by anyone making such claims, please write to us at grievanceofficer@nw18.com or call on 02268882347