Absolutes Quote by Quintilian
“Prune what is turgid, elevate what is commonplace, arrange what is disorderly, introduce rhythm where the language is harsh, modify where it is too absolute.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: Institutio Oratoria by Quintilian, 1st century AD
Advice on refining prose: remove excess, uplift the ordinary, organize chaos, add rhythm, and soften absolutes for clearer expression.
In simple terms: Edit writing by cutting fluff, improving flow, and avoiding extreme statements.
Key Takeaway
Edit for clarity and elegance.
Themes
writing
editing
style
rhetoric
clarity
Mood
instructive
thoughtful
analytical
Type
prescriptive
educational
rhetorical
When to use this quote
- academic writing
- creative writing
- speech writing
- editing process
Key Concepts
rhetorical theory
composition
literary criticism
Questions to Reflect On
- How to balance polish with authenticity?
- When is simplicity more effective than ornament?
A Different Perspective
Over‑emphasis on style can stifle authentic voice.
![“Their [the U.S.’s] defense budget in absolute figures is almost 25 times bigger than Russia’s. This is what in defense is referred to as ‘their home — their fortress.’ And good for them, I say. Well done!” quote by Vladimir Putin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ec3/vladimir-putin-261_absolutes_their-the-u-s-s-defense-budget-in-absolu_10791.jpg)
