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3. speak softly and carry a big stick

speak softly and carry a big stick

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speak softly and carry a big stick

A phrase popularized by US President Theodore Roosevelt that encourages one to attempt peaceful negotiations while also being armed and ready for battle. Because that group is violent and unpredictable, I think you need to speak softly and carry a big stick when you deal with them.

See also: and, big, carry, softly, speak, stick