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Those who run to long words are mainly the unskillful and…

“Those who run to long words are mainly the unskillful and tasteless; they confuse pomposity with dignity, flaccidity with ease, and bulk with force.” quote by Henry Watson Fowler
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“Those who run to long words are mainly the unskillful and tasteless; they confuse pomposity with dignity, flaccidity with ease, and bulk with force.”

Henry Watson Fowler

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 overuse of long words, linking verbosity to lack of skill and substance.

In simple terms: Long words often hide lack of skill.

Key Takeaway

Prefer clear, concise language.

Themes

communication clarity style

Mood

educational critical

Type

literary inspirational

When to use this quote

  • public speaking
  • writing
  • teaching
  • editing

Key Concepts

verbosity pomposity authenticity

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is elaborate language appropriate?
  • How does audience affect word choice?
A Different Perspective

Complex language can be necessary for precision.

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