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Adults Quote by Jan Morris

“Basque is one of the world's more alarming languages. Only a handful of adult foreigners, they say, have ever managed to learn it. The Devil tried once and mastered only three words - profanities, I assume.” quote by Jan Morris
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“Basque is one of the world's more alarming languages. Only a handful of adult foreigners, they say, have ever managed to learn it. The Devil tried once and mastered only three words - profanities, I assume.”

Jan Morris

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Language of the Basques, 1990

Basque is unusually difficult; few adults master it, and even the Devil could only learn three profanities.

In simple terms: Basque is hard to learn, even for the Devil.

Key Takeaway

Acknowledge language complexity and respect effort.

Themes

language challenge culture

Mood

curious reflective

Type

cultural educational

When to use this quote

  • learning languages
  • travel
  • cultural exchange
  • education

Key Concepts

Linguistics mythology difficulty

Questions to Reflect On

  • What motivates you to learn a tough language?
  • How do myths shape language perception?
A Different Perspective

Hard languages can deter learners.

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