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MISCREANT, n. A person of the highest degree of unworth…

“MISCREANT, n. A person of the highest degree of unworth. Etymologically, the word means unbeliever, and its present signification may be regarded as theology's noblest contribution to the development of our language.” quote by Ambrose Bierce
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“MISCREANT, n. A person of the highest degree of unworth. Etymologically, the word means unbeliever, and its present signification may be regarded as theology's noblest contribution to the development of our language.”

Ambrose Bierce

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A miscreant is defined as someone of extreme moral worthlessness, reflecting a theological perspective on language evolution.

In simple terms: A miscreant is a deeply immoral person.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the weight of language in moral judgment.

Themes

morality language theology ethics

Mood

cynical critical

Type

lexical satirical

When to use this quote

  • literary analysis
  • historical linguistics
  • moral philosophy

Key Concepts

semantic shift social critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does labeling affect perception?
  • Can language evolve beyond such judgments?
A Different Perspective

The definition may be overly harsh and dismissive of nuance.

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