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Language Quote by Dennis Potter

“The trouble with words is that you never know whose mouths they've been in.” quote by Dennis Potter
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“The trouble with words is that you never know whose mouths they've been in.”

Dennis Potter

About This Quote

Source Play: The Singing Detective, 1986

Words are detached from their original speakers, making meaning uncertain.

In simple terms: Words lose original context.

Key Takeaway

Question the source of language.

Themes

communication interpretation authorship

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • writing
  • public speaking
  • media analysis

Key Concepts

linguistics semantic shift

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you verify a quote's origin?
  • What impact does misattribution have?
A Different Perspective

Words can be misused or misattributed.

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