Communication Quote by Samuel Johnson
“As any custom is disused, the words that expressed it must perish with it; as any opinion grows popular, it will innovate speech in the same proportion as it alters practice.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Rambler, 1751
When customs fade, their language dies; popular ideas reshape speech as they change practice.
In simple terms: Words die with customs; ideas reshape language.
Key Takeaway
Preserve meaningful language as culture evolves.
Themes
culture
language
change
history
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
historical
When to use this quote
- cultural preservation
- education curriculum
- public discourse
- media analysis
Key Concepts
sociolinguistics
philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- How does technology affect language change?
- What customs should we preserve?
A Different Perspective
Language can survive through documentation despite customs fading.
