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Language Quote by Robert Louis Stevenson

“But a word once spoken who can recapture it?” quote by Robert Louis Stevenson
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““But a word once spoken who can recapture it?””

Robert Louis Stevenson

About This Quote

Source Poem: “The Land of Counterpane” by Robert Louis Stevenson, 1885

Once spoken, a word cannot be reclaimed.

In simple terms: Spoken words are irreversible.

Key Takeaway

Think before you speak.

Themes

communication responsibility language

Mood

reflective cautionary

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • public speaking
  • relationships
  • media
  • law

Key Concepts

ethics speech act theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • What words have you regretted?
  • Can apologies restore meaning?
A Different Perspective

Some words can be reinterpreted later.

2.6 out of 5 (10 ratings)

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