Communication Quote by Malcolm Bradbury
““Well, it's really no use our talking in the way we have been doing if the words we use mean something different to each of us...and nothing.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The History Man, 1975
Highlights the futility of communication when participants assign different meanings to words.
In simple terms: Words can mean different things to each person.
Clarify meanings before discussing.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- team meetings
- cross‑cultural talks
- online forums
- therapy sessions
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you ensure shared meaning?
- What happens when language fails?
Even clarified terms can still be misread.