Language Quote by Charles Dickens
![“[W]e talk about the tyranny of words, but we like to tyrannise over them too; we are fond of having a large superfluous establishment of words to wait upon us on great occasions; we think it looks important, and sounds well. As we are not particular about the meaning of our liveries on state…” quote by Charles Dickens](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/dc3/charles-dickens-34_language_w-e-talk-about-the-tyranny-of-words-but_604117.jpg)
““[W]e talk about the tyranny of words, but we like to tyrannise over them too; we are fond of having a large superfluous establishment of words to wait upon us on great occasions; we think it looks important, and sounds well. As we are not particular about the meaning of our liveries on state occassions, if they be but fine and numerous enough, so, the meaning or necessity of our words is a secondary consideration, if there be but a great parade of them. And as individuals get into trouble by making too great a show of liveries, or as slaves when they are too numerous rise against their masters, so I think I could mention a nation that has got into many great difficulties, and will get into many greater, from maintaining too large a retinue of words.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “On the Tyranny of Words”, 1855
The passage critiques societies that prioritize elaborate language over substance, leading to superficiality and eventual problems.
In simple terms: Using too many fancy words hides true meaning.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize clear, meaningful communication.
Themes
communication
language
authenticity
Mood
critical
thoughtful
analytical
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- public speeches
- legal documents
- marketing copy
- academic writing
Key Concepts
verbosity
superficiality
political rhetoric
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you chosen style over clarity?
- How can brevity improve impact?
A Different Perspective
Excessive wordiness can obscure truth and cause misunderstandings.
