Who will consider that no dictionary of a living tongue…
““Who will consider that no dictionary of a living tongue ever can be perfect, since, while it is hastening to publication, some words are budding, and some falling away; that a whole life cannot be spent upon syntax and etymology, and that even a whole life would not be sufficient; that he, whose design includes whatever language can express, must often speak of what he does not understand.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Language is ever‑changing, so any dictionary will always be incomplete and cannot capture every nuance.
In simple terms: Dictionaries can’t capture all words.
Key Takeaway
Accept language’s fluidity and keep learning.
Themes
language
knowledge
communication
Mood
reflective
inquisitive
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- education
- writing
- translation
- linguistic research
Key Concepts
lexicography
semantic change
epistemology
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we handle unknown words?
- What limits does a dictionary face?
A Different Perspective
Even extensive study cannot master all language.