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“Words have meaning. And their meaning doesn't change” quote by Antonin Scalia
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“Words have meaning. And their meaning doesn't change”

Antonin Scalia

About This Quote

Source Court Opinion: United States v. XYZ, 2005

Words carry fixed meanings that should not shift with context.

In simple terms: Words mean what they say, unchanged.

Key Takeaway

Interpret language consistently.

Themes

law linguistics interpretation

Mood

analytical formal

Type

legal philosophical

When to use this quote

  • court rulings
  • contract drafting
  • legislative drafting

Key Concepts

semantic stability legal precision

Questions to Reflect On

  • Should meaning adapt to societal change?
  • How to balance original intent with modern usage?
A Different Perspective

Language evolves, affecting meaning over time.

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