Purpose Quote by John Stuart Mill
““Since there is no difference of meaning between round, and a round object, it is only custom which prescribes that on any given occasion one shall be used, and not the other. We shall, therefore, without scruple, speak of adjectives as names, whether in their own right, or as representative of the more circuitous forms of expression above exemplified.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: On Liberty, John Stuart Mill, 1859
Language conventions dictate word choice even when meanings coincide, showing that usage, not logic, often governs speech.
In simple terms: Custom decides word use when meanings match.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and question arbitrary linguistic rules.
Themes
language
convention
semantics
philosophy
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- writing
- public speaking
- teaching
- editing
Key Concepts
linguistic relativity
semantic equivalence
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you choose words when synonyms exist?
- When does tradition limit expression?
A Different Perspective
Customs may hinder clarity if not examined.
![“[For people] to refuse a hearing to an opinion, because they are sure that it is false, is to assume that their certainty is the same thing as absolute certainty. All silencing of discussion is an assumption of infallibility.” quote by John Stuart Mill](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c53/john-stuart-mill-477_doubt_for-people-to-refuse-a-hearing-to-an-opi_63929.jpg)
