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Fastidious Quote by Gilbert K. Chesterton

“Correctitude implies nowadays a formal or fastidious use of words; and what is wanted is not so much the correct as the living use of words. It is the memory of the meaning of a word which is the life of the word.” quote by Gilbert K. Chesterton
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“Correctitude implies nowadays a formal or fastidious use of words; and what is wanted is not so much the correct as the living use of words. It is the memory of the meaning of a word which is the life of the word.”

Gilbert K. Chesterton

About This Quote

Source Essay: "The Everlasting Man", 1925

Words should be alive and meaningful, not merely correct or formal; true understanding comes from remembering a word’s essence.

In simple terms: Use words for meaning, not just correctness.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize living meaning over strict form.

Themes

language meaning communication

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • writing
  • teaching
  • public speaking
  • literary analysis

Key Concepts

semantics etymology pragmatics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does focusing on meaning change your writing?
  • When have you let form dominate content?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on correctness can stifle creativity and nuance.

3.3 out of 5 (9 ratings)

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