A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.
Solomon here shows how much it becomes a man, 1. To speak pertinently: A word upon the wheels, that runs well, is well-circumstanced, in proper time and place - instruction, advice, or comfort, given seasonably, and in apt expressions, adapted to the case of the person spoken to and agreeing with the character of the person speaking - is like golden balls resembling apples, or...
Commenting on Proverbs 25:11-12
A word fitly spoken,.... Or, "a word spoken on its wheels" (d): that proceeds aright, keeps due order, is well circumstanced as to matter, method, time, place, and persons; a discourse well put together, properly pronounced, roundly, easily, and fluently delivered to proper persons, and adapted to their circumstances; and "seasonably" spoken, as the Targum and many versions render it: is like apples of gold...
a word fitly--literally, "quickly," as wheels roll, just in time. The comparison as apples . . . silver gives a like sense. apples, &c.--either real apples of golden color, in a silver network basket, or imitations on silver embroidery.