Aphorism vs. Sententious — What's the Difference?

An aphorism (from Greek ἀφορισμός: aphorismos, denoting 'delimitation', 'distinction', and 'definition') is a concise, terse, laconic, or memorable expression of a general truth or principle. They are often handed down by tradition from generation to generation.

Terse and energetic in expression; pithy.

A tersely phrased statement of a truth or opinion; an adage.

Full of or given to using aphorisms, especially in a pompously moralizing manner.

A brief statement of a scientific principle.

Using as few words as possible; pithy and concise.

A concise, terse, laconic, or memorable expression of a general truth or principle.

Tending to use aphorisms or maxims, especially given to trite moralizing.

To speak or write aphorisms.

(obsolete) Full of meaning.

A comprehensive maxim or principle expressed in a few words; a sharply defined sentence relating to abstract truth rather than to practical matters.

Abounding with sentences, axioms, and maxims; full of meaning; terse and energetic in expression; pithy; as, a sententious style or discourse; sententious truth.

A short pithy instructive saying

Comprising or representing sentences; sentential.

Abounding in or given to pompous or aphoristic moralizing;

Concise and full of meaning;