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Vulgarism in language is the distinguishing characteristic…

“Vulgarism in language is the distinguishing characteristic of bad company, and a bad education. A man of fashion avoids nothing with more care than that. Proverbial expressions, and trite sayings, are the flowers of the rhetoric of vulgar man.” quote by Lord Chesterfield
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“Vulgarism in language is the distinguishing characteristic of bad company, and a bad education. A man of fashion avoids nothing with more care than that. Proverbial expressions, and trite sayings, are the flowers of the rhetoric of vulgar man.”

Lord Chesterfield

About This Quote

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

Vulgar language signals poor company and education; refined speech reflects cultivated taste.

In simple terms: Crude speech shows bad company and upbringing.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate refined language.

Themes

etics education social class

Mood

formal didactic

Type

philosophical social commentary

When to use this quote

  • social gatherings
  • formal writing
  • public speaking
  • teaching

Key Concepts

linguistics cultural capital

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does language shape perception of character?
  • Can one be virtuous yet speak plainly?
A Different Perspective

Politeness alone doesn’t guarantee moral character.

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