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Above all, beware of platitudes, i.e., word combinations…

“Above all, beware of platitudes, i.e., word combinations that have already appeared a thousand times… As a general rule, try to find new combinations of words (not for the sake of their novelty, but because every person sees things in an individual way and must find his own words for them).” quote by Vladimir Nabokov
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“Above all, beware of platitudes, i.e., word combinations that have already appeared a thousand times… As a general rule, try to find new combinations of words (not for the sake of their novelty, but because every person sees things in an individual way and must find his own words for them).”

Vladimir Nabokov

About This Quote

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

Encourages avoiding overused phrases and seeking fresh language, not for novelty but to reflect individual perception and personal expression.

In simple terms: Find your own words, avoid clichés.

Key Takeaway

Create authentic, personal expression.

Themes

language creativity individuality expression

Mood

reflective inspired thoughtful

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • writing workshops
  • creative brainstorming
  • personal journaling

Key Concepts

literary craft psychology of perception

Questions to Reflect On

  • What clichés limit your thinking?
  • How can you rephrase common ideas uniquely?
A Different Perspective

New language may still be misunderstood.

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