Clarity Quote by William Safire
““Adapt your style, if you wish, to admit the color of slang or freshness of neologism, but hang tough on clarity, precision, structure, grace.””
About This Quote
Source Column: “The Elements of Style” (1985)
Adapt language to stay fresh, but maintain clarity, precision, structure, and elegance.
In simple terms: Stay fresh but keep writing clear and precise.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize clarity over trendy slang.
Themes
writing
style
communication
Mood
advisory
practical
Type
educational
professional
When to use this quote
- editing
- public speaking
- academic writing
Key Concepts
linguistics
clarity
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance innovation and clarity?
- When is slang appropriate?
A Different Perspective
May resist necessary linguistic evolution.
