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Admire Quote by C. S. Lewis

“Critics who treat adult as a term of approval, instead of as a merely descriptive term, cannot be adult themselves. To be concerned about being grown up, to admire the grown up because it is grown up, to blush at the suspicion of being childish; these things are the marks of childhood and…” quote by C. S. Lewis
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“Critics who treat adult as a term of approval, instead of as a merely descriptive term, cannot be adult themselves. To be concerned about being grown up, to admire the grown up because it is grown up, to blush at the suspicion of being childish; these things are the marks of childhood and adolescence.”

C. S. Lewis

About This Quote

Source Book: The Four Loves by C. S. Lewis, 1960

Adults who misuse “adult” as praise reveal their own immaturity; true adulthood is about responsibility, not status.

In simple terms: Misusing “adult” shows immaturity.

Key Takeaway

Seek responsibility, not approval.

Themes

adulthood identity responsibility

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical social commentary

When to use this quote

  • workplace hierarchy
  • family dynamics
  • social media discourse

Key Concepts

maturity social perception

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does language shape our sense of maturity?
  • What responsibilities define true adulthood?
A Different Perspective

Adults may resist the label yet still act immaturely.

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