Books Quote by Jonathan Swift
“The affectation of some late authors to introduce and multiply cant words is the most ruinous corruption in any language.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: A Modest Proposal, 1729
The author condemns modern writers for overusing complex words, seeing it as a harmful corruption of language.
In simple terms: Overusing fancy words corrupts language.
Key Takeaway
Avoid needless jargon.
Themes
language
literature
corruption
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- editing
- academic writing
- public speaking
Key Concepts
prescriptivism
semantic clarity
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do writers choose complex words?
- Can simplicity be limiting?
A Different Perspective
Complexity can sometimes enrich expression.
