Language Quote by Jesse Eisinger
““You’re totally wrong!” Rakoff cried. He explained that the rule against split infinitives was just a bizarre invention by some pedants in the late nineteenth century to have English mimic Latin, in which infinitives are one word. All the great authors—Shakespeare! Faulkner!—split the infinitive.””
About This Quote
Source Article: Language column, 2022
Split infinitives are a natural English feature, not a flaw; strict rules can stifle expression.
In simple terms: Split infinitives are fine in English.
Key Takeaway
Allow flexibility in language rules.
Themes
language
grammar
prescriptivism
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
Type
academic
educational
When to use this quote
- writing
- editing
- teaching
- public speaking
Key Concepts
linguistics
style
communication
Questions to Reflect On
- Should we enforce strict grammar in all writing?
- How does flexibility affect comprehension?
A Different Perspective
Prescriptive rules can aid clarity in formal contexts.
