Books Quote by Ambrose Bierce
“The bold and discerning writer who, recognizing the truth that language must grow by innovation if it grow at all, makes new words and uses the old in an unfamiliar sense has no following and is tartly reminded that 'it isn't in the dictionary' - although down to the time of the first lexicographer no author ever had used a word that was in the dictionary.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "The Lexicographer’s Dilemma", 1905
Innovation in language requires creating new words, but new terms may be rejected for lacking dictionary legitimacy, highlighting tension between creativity and convention.
In simple terms: New words face resistance from tradition.
Key Takeaway
Embrace linguistic creativity.
Themes
language
creativity
tradition
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- writing
- branding
- academic discourse
Key Concepts
lexicography
semantic evolution
Questions to Reflect On
- How can writers balance novelty and clarity?
- When is it okay to break dictionary rules?
A Different Perspective
Innovation can be stifled by rigid standards.
![“ABNORMAL, adj. Not conforming to standard. In matters of thought and conduct, to be independent is to be abnormal, to be abnormal is to be detested. Wherefore the lexicographer adviseth a striving toward the straiter [sic] resemblance of the Average Man than he hath to himself. Whoso attaineth…” quote by Ambrose Bierce](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/029/ambrose-bierce-140_abnormal_abnormal-adj-not-conforming-to-standard_793483.jpg)
