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One cannot explain words without making incursions into…

“One cannot explain words without making incursions into the sciences themselves, as is evident from dictionaries; and, conversely, one cannot present a science without at the same time defining its terms.” quote by Gottfried Leibniz
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“One cannot explain words without making incursions into the sciences themselves, as is evident from dictionaries; and, conversely, one cannot present a science without at the same time defining its terms.”

Gottfried Leibniz

About This Quote

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

Science and language are mutually dependent; defining terms is essential for scientific discourse.

In simple terms: Science needs clear language.

Key Takeaway

Define terms clearly in science.

Themes

language science definition philosophy of language

Mood

analytical curious

Type

philosophical academic

When to use this quote

  • academic writing
  • teaching
  • research methodology
  • public communication

Key Concepts

epistemology logic

Questions to Reflect On

  • What terms in your field need clarification?
  • How does language shape scientific thought?
A Different Perspective

Over‑definition can stifle creativity.

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