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American english Quote by H. L. Mencken

“There is reinforcement in such familiar back-formations as Chinee from Chinese, Portugee from Portuguese.” quote by H. L. Mencken
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““There is reinforcement in such familiar back-formations as Chinee from Chinese, Portugee from Portuguese.””

H. L. Mencken

About This Quote

Source Essay: "The American Language", 1919

Familiar word formations like “Chinee” and “Portugee” illustrate linguistic reinforcement.

In simple terms: Language forms reinforce stereotypes.

Key Takeaway

Critique linguistic shortcuts.

Themes

language stereotypes etymology

Mood

analytical critical

Type

scholarly educational

When to use this quote

  • media
  • education
  • writing

Key Concepts

sociolinguistics cultural bias

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do language choices shape perception?
  • What alternatives avoid reinforcing stereotypes?
A Different Perspective

Such terms can perpetuate prejudice and oversimplify cultures.

3.6 out of 5 (9 ratings)

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