Language Quote by George Bernard Shaw
![“HIGGINS [aggrieved] Do you mean that my language is improper? MRS HIGGINS. No, dearest: it would be quite proper - say on a canal barge...” quote by George Bernard Shaw](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/1fc/george-bernard-shaw-68_language_higgins-aggrieved-do-you-mean-that-my-la_290050.jpg)
““HIGGINS [aggrieved] Do you mean that my language is improper? MRS HIGGINS. No, dearest: it would be quite proper - say on a canal barge...””
About This Quote
Source Play: Pygmalion, 1913
A character questions whether their speech is socially acceptable, highlighting class and propriety in language.
In simple terms: Language can be judged by class norms.
Key Takeaway
Consider how speech reflects social expectations.
Themes
class
language
social norms
identity
communication
Mood
reflective
critical
thoughtful
Type
dramatic
literary
commentary
When to use this quote
- theatre performance
- language education
- social gatherings
- interpersonal conflict
Key Concepts
sociolinguistics
class consciousness
Questions to Reflect On
- How does speech affect perceived status?
- Can altering language change social perception?
A Different Perspective
Language judgment can reinforce class divisions.
![“[W]hat possible purpose does this lashing-out serve? Will activists be shamed into recovering their previous enthusiasm? Will Republicans stop their vicious attacks because Obama is lashing out to his left? It was pure self-indulgence; even if he feels aggrieved, he has to judge his words by their…” quote by Paul Krugman](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/60f/paul-krugman-2255_2010_w-hat-possible-purpose-does-this-lashing_2077342.jpg)
