Skip to content

Nine times out of ten it is the coarse word that condemns…

“Nine times out of ten it is the coarse word that condemns an evil, and the refined word that excuses it.” quote by Gilbert K. Chesterton
Download Open image
“Nine times out of ten it is the coarse word that condemns an evil, and the refined word that excuses it.”

Gilbert K. Chesterton

About This Quote

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

Language shapes moral judgment; harsh words expose wrongdoing while polite language can mask it.

In simple terms: Harsh words reveal evil; polite words hide it.

Key Takeaway

Choose precise language to confront injustice.

Themes

ethics communication justice

Mood

critical reflective

Type

ethical analytical

When to use this quote

  • legal discourse
  • political debate
  • media reporting
  • personal conflict

Key Concepts

moral philosophy linguistic framing

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does word choice affect accountability?
  • When is diplomatic language justified?
A Different Perspective

Polite language may be necessary for diplomacy, limiting blunt exposure.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Gilbert K. Chesterton

Explore all 868 Gilbert K. Chesterton quotes

More Coarse quotes

Browse all 152 Coarse quotes