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Inspirational Quote by Benjamin Franklin

“Write with the learned, pronounce with the vulgar.” quote by Benjamin Franklin
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“Write with the learned, pronounce with the vulgar.”

Benjamin Franklin

About This Quote

Source Letter: Advice on writing, 1750s

Use learned language for scholarly work and vulgar language for everyday speech to reach varied audiences.

In simple terms: Write formally for scholars, casually for the public.

Key Takeaway

Adapt tone to audience.

Themes

communication language audience awareness

Mood

pragmatic educational

Type

instructional philosophical

When to use this quote

  • teaching
  • public speaking
  • writing essays
  • media outreach

Key Concepts

rhetoric sociolinguistics

Questions to Reflect On

  • When should you switch between formal and informal tone?
  • How does audience affect your word choice?
A Different Perspective

Mixing tones can confuse readers.

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