FWIW, it's "Speak softly and carry a big stick" and Roosevelt meant in in reference to U.S. foreign policy. Specifically, negotiate peacefully, but with the thr

FWIW, it's "Speak softly and carry a big stick" and Roosevelt meant in in reference to U.S. foreign policy. Specifically, negotiate peacefully, but with the threat of the U.S. military when necessary. More generally, I take it to mean: act restrained when possible, using your power quietly and only when needed.