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Here's a phrase that apparently the airlines simply made…

“Here's a phrase that apparently the airlines simply made up: near miss. They say that if 2 planes almost collide, it's a near miss. Bullshit, my friend. It's a near hit! A collision is a near miss. [WHAM! CRUNCH!] "Look, they nearly missed!" "Yes, but not quite.” quote by George Carlin
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“Here's a phrase that apparently the airlines simply made up: near miss. They say that if 2 planes almost collide, it's a near miss. Bullshit, my friend. It's a near hit! A collision is a near miss. [WHAM! CRUNCH!] "Look, they nearly missed!" "Yes, but not quite.”

George Carlin

About This Quote

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

He critiques the euphemistic term “near miss” for dangerous aviation incidents, arguing it downplays seriousness.

In simple terms: Calls out language that hides risk.

Key Takeaway

Take safety seriously, avoid euphemisms.

Themes

language risk communication

Mood

critical ironic

Type

satirical observational

When to use this quote

  • aviation safety meetings
  • pilot training
  • public safety campaigns

Key Concepts

semantic framing danger perception

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does language shape our response to danger?
  • What terms could better convey risk?
A Different Perspective

Euphemisms may reduce urgency for corrective action.

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