Diction Quote by Peter De Vries
“Words fashioned with somewhat over precise diction are like shapes turned out by a cookie cutter.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Art of Writing, Peter De Vries, 1965
Overly precise diction shapes language like a cookie cutter molds dough, limiting nuance.
In simple terms: Exact words can be restrictive.
Key Takeaway
Balance precision with flexibility in expression.
Themes
language
precision
creativity
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
literary
educational
When to use this quote
- writing workshops
- editing
- creative writing
Key Concepts
Linguistics
stylistic choice
Questions to Reflect On
- When does precision enhance meaning?
- How can you loosen rigid phrasing?
A Different Perspective
Strict precision may stifle originality.
![“Who of us is mature enough for offspring before the offspring themselves arrive? The value of [parenthood] is not that adults produce children but that children produce adults.” quote by Peter De Vries](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/33e/peter-de-vries-7735_children_who-of-us-is-mature-enough-for-offspring_97865.jpg)
