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aphorism

noun [C]
 
 
/ˈæf.ə.rɪ.zəm/ US  /-ɚ.ɪ-/

Definition

a short clever saying that is intended to express a general truth: Oscar Wilde was famous for such aphorisms as 'Experience is the name everyone gives to their mistakes'.Sentences and expressions
(Definition of aphorism noun from the Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary & Thesaurus © Cambridge University Press)

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