Active Quote by George Orwell
“Never use a metaphor, simile, or other figure of speech which you are used to seeing in print. Never use a long word where a short one will do. If it is possible to cut a word out always cut it out. Never use the passive voice where you can use the active. Never use a foreign phrase a scientific word or a jargon word if you can think of an everyday English equivalent. Break any of these rules sooner than say anything outright barbarous.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Politics and the English Language, 1946
Advocates clear, concise writing by avoiding overused figurative language, long words, passive voice, foreign or technical terms, and breaking rules only when necessary.
In simple terms: Write plainly and directly.
Key Takeaway
Prefer simplicity over complexity.
Themes
clarity
conciseness
style
communication
editing
Mood
analytical
pragmatic
critical
Type
advice
instructional
When to use this quote
- academic essays
- business reports
- journalism
- technical documentation
- everyday conversation
Key Concepts
rhetoric
linguistics
cognitive load
Questions to Reflect On
- When does simplicity hinder meaning?
- How can you balance clarity with expressive depth?
A Different Perspective
Over-simplification may strip nuance or rhetorical effect.
