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[–] cynicaloldfart ago 

At least give credit where it's due. Even then, that "quote" is from Napoleon Bonaparte, but the paraphrase of it has changed over the years.

In 1852 a biographical magazine also quotes Napoleon giving advice to his marshals [BM]:

“Then, gentlemen,” said Napoleon, “let us wait a little; when your enemy is executing a false movement, never interrupt him.”

An 1836 multi-volume history book titled “French Revolution” contains a version of the quotation that is similar to the one given in 1852. This history book dates the quotation to a battle in 1805. These words may have been transformed into the modern maxim [FR]:

“In that case,” said Napoleon, “let us wait twenty minutes; when the enemy is making a false movement we must take good care not to interrupt him.”

https://quoteinvestigator.com/2010/07/06/never-interfere/#more-875

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[–] LakotaPride [S] 0 points 1 point (+1|-0) ago 

Thank you for providing the original phrase by Napoleon, I know when translating languages some liberties are taken and some values are lost. this is why it always best to learn that language to get the real exact phrase and meaning.

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[–] cynicaloldfart ago 

Words are used to convey thoughts and emotions, and thus are somewhat difficult to ensure those are communicated to begin with. Add in the fact that languages evolve as current cultural references become involved, and while some statements become paraphrased over time it just helps to check if the meaning retains the original expression of thought. Isn't that partially why we have an "edit" button here?