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Abuse Quote by Walter Raleigh

“Bad language or abuse, I never, never use, Whatever the emergency; Though 'Bother it' I may Occasionally say, I never use a big, big D : What, never? : No, never! : What never? : Well, hardly ever! : Hardly ever swears a big, big D Then give three cheers, and one cheer more, For the well-bred…” quote by Walter Raleigh
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“Bad language or abuse, I never, never use, Whatever the emergency; Though 'Bother it' I may Occasionally say, I never use a big, big D : What, never? : No, never! : What never? : Well, hardly ever! : Hardly ever swears a big, big D Then give three cheers, and one cheer more, For the well-bred Captain of the Pinafore!”

Walter Raleigh

About This Quote

Source Poem: “Bad Language” by Walter Raleigh, early 17th century

The speaker vows to avoid profanity, using humor to highlight the rarity of harsh language.

In simple terms: He rarely swears, preferring restraint.

Key Takeaway

Practice restraint in speech.

Themes

self‑control language humor

Mood

playful thoughtful

Type

satirical didactic

When to use this quote

  • public speaking
  • teaching
  • conflict resolution
  • writing

Key Concepts

oral tradition social etiquette

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do we sometimes slip into profanity despite intentions?
  • How does humor help enforce social norms?
A Different Perspective

Humor may mask deeper social pressures about propriety.

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