The nominal winner is often a real loser.

What it means

Lincoln advised young lawyers to talk neighbors out of lawsuits. Winning a fight can cost more than it gains. Look for the deal that leaves everyone ahead.

The source

"The nominal winner is often a real loser." Abraham Lincoln said it in Notes for a Law Lecture, c. 1 July 1850. Written in English: Speeches and Letters of Abraham Lincoln, 1907.

"Point out to them how the nominal winner is often a real loser--in fees, expenses, and waste of time."

Original English (Speeches and Letters of Abraham Lincoln, 1907), Notes for a Law Lecture, c. 1 July 1850. Text read at gutenberg.org.

Who said it

Abraham Lincoln (1809–1865). Sixteenth president of the United States, who led the Union through the Civil War. His lines come from the Gettysburg Address, his inaugural addresses and his notes for young lawyers.

Questions

What does "The nominal winner is often a real loser." mean?

Lincoln advised young lawyers to talk neighbors out of lawsuits. Winning a fight can cost more than it gains. Look for the deal that leaves everyone ahead.

Who said "The nominal winner is often a real loser."?

Abraham Lincoln (1809–1865). Source: Notes for a Law Lecture, c. 1 July 1850.

What is the original wording?

Point out to them how the nominal winner is often a real loser--in fees, expenses, and waste of time (Original English (Speeches and Letters of Abraham Lincoln, 1907)). Written in English: Speeches and Letters of Abraham Lincoln, 1907.

Is "The nominal winner is often a real loser." on a shirt?

Yes. We print it to order on our tees in 7 illustrated looks, from $44, with free US shipping.

"The nominal winner is often a real loser." (Abraham Lincoln, Notes for a Law Lecture, c. 1 July 1850, trans. Original English (Speeches and Letters of Abraham Lincoln, 1907)). https://spartansurfers.com/quotes/the-nominal-winner-is-often-a-real-loser