Etgar Keret, an Israeli novelist, said he had been…
““Etgar Keret, an Israeli novelist, said he had been troubled by some of the terms favored by journalists, politicians and even friends in Tel Aviv. There is no Hebrew word for ‘‘assassination,’’ Mr. Keret said, so killings of Hamas operatives are described with a phrase meaning ‘‘focused obstruction.’’ Instead of ‘‘civilians,’’ he said, slain children and women are sometimes called ‘‘uninvolved.’’ ‘‘There’s something about this ‘uninvolved,’ there’s something passive about it,’’ Mr. Keret said. ‘‘You admit that he is not somebody who is trying to destroy you, but you don’t give him any other identification. It was not a child who wanted to learn how to play the piano,’’ he said, adding, ‘‘it was just somebody who didn’t shoot at us.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Language can soften harsh realities, making violent acts seem less severe and thereby influencing perception and moral judgment.
In simple terms: Words shape how we see violence and victims.
Key Takeaway
Choose precise language to reflect truth.
Themes
language
ethics
conflict
media
perception
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
analytical
ethical
When to use this quote
- journalistic reporting
- political discourse
- public debate
- education
- human rights advocacy
Key Concepts
euphemism
framing
dehumanization
Questions to Reflect On
- How does softened language affect public response?
- What responsibilities do speakers have in labeling violence?
A Different Perspective
Euphemistic language may obscure accountability and hinder justice.