Dictionary Quote by Kory Stamper
“It's difficult to sit down and write a letter back saying, "you know what, even if we remove the word from the dictionary, people will still continue to use it." That's the tightrope that we walk - "gay marriage" is another example, or the word "nude."”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Lexicographer on language change, 2015
Words persist in usage despite official removal; language evolves independently of formal definitions.
In simple terms: Words stay used even if removed from dictionaries.
Key Takeaway
Accept that language change is organic and adapt accordingly.
Themes
language
change
social norms
lexicography
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
sociological
political
When to use this quote
- public discourse
- media reporting
- legal documents
- social media posts
Key Concepts
semantic drift
cultural resistance
political correctness
Questions to Reflect On
- Should dictionaries lead or follow language trends?
- How does word removal affect marginalized groups?
A Different Perspective
Resistance can cause backlash and hinder progress.
