Experience is the name every one gives to their mistakes.
 Oscar Wilde, Lady Windermere's Fan (1893). copy citation

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Author Oscar Wilde
Source Lady Windermere's Fan
Topic experience mistake
Date 1893
Language English
Reference
Note
Weblink http://www.gutenberg.org/files/790/790-h/790-h.htm

Context

“That is a great error. Experience is a question of instinct about life. I have got it. Tuppy hasn’t. Experience is the name Tuppy gives to his mistakes. That is all. [Lord Augustus looks round indignantly.] Dumby. Experience is the name every one gives to their mistakes. Cecil Graham. [Standing with his back to the fireplace.] One shouldn’t commit any. [Sees Lady Windermere’s fan on sofa.] Dumby. Life would be very dull without them. Cecil Graham. Of course you are quite faithful to this woman you are in love with, Darlington, to this good woman?” source