Definitions Quote by Remy de Gourmont
“A definition is a sack of flour compressed into a thimble”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Definition of a Definition,” 1905
A definition compresses complex ideas into a tiny, often insufficient container.
In simple terms: Definitions simplify but can limit understanding.
Key Takeaway
Use definitions as guides, not constraints.
Themes
language
precision
abstraction
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- academic writing
- legal drafting
- technical manuals
Key Concepts
semantic theory
philosophy of language
communication
Questions to Reflect On
- When is a definition too restrictive?
- How can we balance clarity with complexity?
A Different Perspective
Rigid definitions may stifle nuance.
![“The self is defined psychologically as the psychic totality of the individual. Anything that a [person] postulates as being a greater totality than [oneself] can become a symbol of the self. For this reason the symbol of the self is not always as total as the definition would require.” quote by Carl Jung](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/251/carl-jung-274_defined_the-self-is-defined-psychologically-as-t_7148.jpg)
