Acid Quote by Mark Twain
“So avoid using the word 'very' because it's lazy. A man is not very tired, he is exhausted. Don't use very sad, use morose. Language was invented for one reason, boys - to woo women - and, in that endeavor, laziness will not do. It also won't do in your essays. What you do today is important, because you are sacrificing a day of your life for it. Anger is an acid that can do more harm to the vessel in which it is stored than to anything on which it is poured.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Writing Advice, 19th Century, null
Emphasizes precise language, avoiding overused intensifiers, and the importance of purposeful effort.
In simple terms: Use specific words, avoid lazy filler, value effort.
Key Takeaway
Choose precise language, value effort.
Themes
writing
precision
effort
emotion
language
Mood
thoughtful
determined
Type
advice
instructional
When to use this quote
- academic writing
- creative writing
- personal productivity
- public speaking
Key Concepts
lexical choice
emotional impact
motivation
Questions to Reflect On
- How does word choice affect reader perception?
- When does precision become pretentious?
A Different Perspective
Overly precise language can sound pedantic.
