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Character Quote by Charles Caleb Colton

“Words are in this respect like water, that they often take their taste, flavour, and character, from the mouth out of which they proceed, as the water from the channel through which it flows.” quote by Charles Caleb Colton
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“Words are in this respect like water, that they often take their taste, flavour, and character, from the mouth out of which they proceed, as the water from the channel through which it flows.”

Charles Caleb Colton

About This Quote

Source Book: Essays by Charles Caleb Colton, 1820

Words acquire flavor from the speaker, just as water reflects its source.

In simple terms: Words taste like the speaker.

Key Takeaway

Choose words wisely.

Themes

communication language influence

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

philosophical observational

When to use this quote

  • public speaking
  • writing
  • teaching
  • media commentary

Key Concepts

rhetoric perception source effect

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does your tone affect your message?
  • Can you separate content from delivery?
A Different Perspective

Words can be misinterpreted regardless of intent.

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