Four contrasting pairs of verbal misconduct and good conducts

"Bhikkhus, there are these four kinds of verbal misconduct. What four?

1 Lying (false speech [musāvāda]),

2 divisive speech (slanderous, defamatory, malicious [pisuṇa vācā]),

3 harsh speech (abusive, rough, hard, unkind [pharusā vācā]),

4 frivolous chatter (meaningless talk, gossip, idle speech [samphappalāpa]).

These are the four kinds of verbal misconduct."

-- AN 4.148

"Bhikkhus, there are these four kinds of verbal good conduct. What four?

1 Truthful speech (speaking what is true [saccavācā]),

2 non-divisive speech (not slanderous, not defamatory, not malicious [apisuṇa vācā]),

3 gentle speech (spoken politely, with a mind of loving-kindness [saṇhā vācā]),

4 wise counsel (relevant, beneficial, to the point [mantabhāsā]).

These are the four kinds of verbal good conduct."

-- AN 4.149

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Tendencies to use false speech and truthful speech arise from whether one is actively interested in verifying and examining what is heard, seen, or sensed versus assuming things at face value or jumping to quick conclusions. In addition, intentionally using false speech to deceive others leads to harm—from experiencing a loss of trust with others to an increase in anxiety, guilt, and internal conflicts.

Tendencies to use divisive and harsh speech come from the mistaken belief that by blowing out another’s candle, one’s own light will shine brighter. This behavior can damage friendships and work relationships, lead to social isolation, or result in unnecessary conflicts.

The tendency to engage in frivolous chatter leads to wasted time and energy, shallow relationships, and a loss of mental composure.

On the other hand, practicing the four kinds of right speech, along with speaking at the proper time, leads to wholesome outcomes. One earns the trust and respect of one's friends, colleagues and community by consistently practicing the five factors of well-spoken speech.

Related Teachings:

Speech like dung, flowers and honey (AN 3.28) - This is a teaching where the Buddha is categorizing speech into three types. One can verify this teaching by observing for the hindrances that come up during meditation or with the amount of disagreeable or agreeable contact one comes across in their interactions.

A line drawn in water | A teaching on speech (AN 3.132) - The Buddha is sharing a guidance here on people who can harmoniously interact with others, even in the face of hostility. This is a quality one will gradually cultivate as they work towards enlightenment.