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Words can be like weapons of destruction: It takes so much…

“Words can be like weapons of destruction: It takes so much effort, and the cooperation of so many people, to build something - and so little effort of so few to tear it down.” quote by Deborah Tannen
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“Words can be like weapons of destruction: It takes so much effort, and the cooperation of so many people, to build something - and so little effort of so few to tear it down.”

Deborah Tannen

About This Quote

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

Words can build or destroy; collective effort creates lasting structures, while few can dismantle them easily.

In simple terms: Words can create or destroy; many build, few destroy.

Key Takeaway

Guard your language, recognize its power.

Themes

communication power collaboration

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • team projects
  • public discourse
  • online debates
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

social dynamics construction destruction

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you ensure your words build rather than break?
  • What safeguards can groups set against destructive speech?
A Different Perspective

Even a single word can have unintended harmful impact.

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