Answers Quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson
“Every discourse is an approximate answer: but it is of small consequence, that we do not get it into verbs and nouns, whilst it abides for contemplation forever.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Self-Reliance, 1841
Ideas are often vague and not easily expressed in concrete language, yet they remain valuable for deep thought.
In simple terms: Vague ideas can still be valuable.
Key Takeaway
Embrace abstract thinking without forcing precise wording.
Themes
philosophy
language
thought
Mood
thoughtful
introspective
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- academic discussion
- personal reflection
- creative brainstorming
Key Concepts
abstractness
communication
contemplation
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance abstraction and clarity?
- When is vague language beneficial?
A Different Perspective
Complex ideas may be misinterpreted without clear terms.
![“[T]here is a methodological bias in favor of taking natural discourse literally, other things being equal. For example, unless there are clear reasons for construing discourse as ambiguous, elliptical, or involving special idioms, we should not so construe it.” quote by Tyler Burge](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2be/tyler-burge-109585_ambiguous_t-here-is-a-methodological-bias-in-favor_377917.jpg)
