Item 3 in Noble Eightfold Path

Right Speech

Refrain from false, divisive, abusive and carelessly harmful speech.

Position
3
Form
Step in a path
Obligation
Recommended
Wording status
Editorial paraphrase
Intended audience
Buddhist practitioners, with interpretations adapted to monastic and lay life
Last reviewed
28 June 2026

Names and terminology

Canonical name: Right Speech

Original term: Sammā-vācā

Source wording

Editorial paraphrase: Refrain from false, divisive, abusive and carelessly harmful speech.

Editorial paraphrase

Literal meaning

Refrain from false, divisive, abusive and carelessly harmful speech.

Broader interpretation

The principle concerns both factual truth and the predictable interpersonal effects of communication.

Ethical purpose

To shape conduct or character in a way consistent with the wider ethical framework.

Modern application

Modern application requires attention to consent, rights, evidence, foreseeable harm and changing social conditions.

Criticism and difficult cases

Application can become difficult when this principle conflicts with another duty, when harm is indirect, or when ancient social assumptions do not fit modern conditions.

Truth By Reason analysis

Truth By Reason assesses this principle according to evidence, rights, intentions, foreseeable consequences and consistency with the treatment of all affected beings.

Ethical themes

  • Compassion
  • Honesty

Explanations, comparisons and discussions

Sources