Proverbs 17:7 - Clarke's commentary and critical notes on the Bible

Excellent speech becometh not a fool: much less do lying lips a prince. Excellent speech becometh not a fool - This proverb is suitable to those who affect, in public speaking, fine language, which neither comports with their ordinary conversation, nor with their education. Often fine words are injudiciously brought in, and are as unbecoming and irrelevant as a cart wheel among clockwork.