“Vulgarity is no substitute for wit”: Downton Abbey's 12 most epic one-liners

From sharp wit to heartfelt moments, Downton Abbey is packed with lines that linger long after the episode ends – whether it’s Lady Mary’s cutting sarcasm, Violet, Dowager Countess of Grantham’s unforgettable one-liners, or the subtle wisdom of the servants downstairs.

Here, we’ve gathered some of the most memorable quotes that perfectly capture the spirit of Downton Abbey — moments that make you laugh, sigh, and sometimes even tear up.

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Best Downton Abbey quotes ever

What is a weekend?
Violet, Dowager Countess of Grantham

Of course it would happen to a foreigner. No Englishman would dream of dying in someone else's house. Violet, Dowager Countess of Grantham

We may have to have a maid in the dining room.
Carson

Molesley, you look very Latin all of a sudden. Do you have any Italian blood?
Lord Grantham

I'm having my career backwards.
Molesley

I do think a woman’s place is eventually in the home, but I see no harm in her having some fun before she gets there.
Violet, Dowager Countess of Grantham

In my day, a lady was incapable of feeling physical attraction until she had been instructed to do so by her mama.
Violet, Dowager Countess of Grantham

I have come down in the world, Mr. Carson. We both know that. I am a beggar, and so, as the proverb tells us, I cannot be a chooser.
Molesley

You should never think that education is just for special people, for clever people, for toffs. Education is for everyone.
Molesley

Vulgarity is no substitute for wit.
Violet, Dowager Countess of Grantham

Principles are like prayers; noble, of course, but awkward at a party.
Violet, Dowager Countess of Grantham

I don’t dislike him. I just don’t like him, which is quite different.
Violet, Dowager Countess of Grantham

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