A dogmatic belief in objective value is necessary to the very idea of a rule which is not tyranny or an obedience which is not slavery.
C. S. LewisRead
Don't use words too big for the subject. Don't say 'infinitely' when you mean 'very'; otherwise you'll have no word left when you want to talk about something really infinite.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Be careful with your words; using them inaccurately can diminish their impact.
This quote by C. S. Lewis emphasizes the importance of using precise language. By advocating for clarity and accuracy in word choice, Lewis suggests that exaggerating or misusing terms can lead to confusion and weaken our ability to convey more profound concepts when they arise, ultimately challenging us to communicate thoughtfully and effectively.
Themes
WordsCommunicationClarityLanguageMeaning
In practice
Example use cases
A speaker at a conference wants to emphasize the importance of clear communication.
More from C. S. Lewis
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Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither.
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Forgiving and being forgiven are two names for the same thing. The important thing is that a discord has been resolved.
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I pray because I can't help myself. I pray because I'm helpless. It doesn't change God - it changes me.
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The instrument through which you see God is your whole self. And if a man's self is not kept clean and bright, his glimpse of God will be blurred
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