Vocabulary Quotes

The problem with defending the purity of the English language is that English is about as pure as a cribhouse whore. We don't just borrow words; on occasion, English has pursued other languages down alleyways to beat them unconscious and rifle their pockets for new vocabulary.

English

I want my vocabulary to have a very large range, but the words must be alive. - James Agee quote.

I want my vocabulary to have a very large range, but the words must be alive.
— James Agee Letters of James Agee to Father Flye

Like the growth rings of a tree, our vocabulary bears witness to our past.
— John Algeo Fifty Years Among the New Words: A Dictionary of Neologisms 1941–1991

For every man there is something in the vocabulary that would stick to him like a second skin. His enemies have only to find it. - Ambrose Bierce quote.

For every man there is something in the vocabulary that would stick to him like a second skin.  His enemies have only to find it.

A large vocabulary is like an artist having a large palette of colors. You don't have to use all those colors in a single painting but it helps to have just the right shade when you need it. - Anu Garg quote.

A large vocabulary is like an artist having a large palette of colors. You don't have to use all those colors in a single painting but it helps to have just the right shade when you need it.
— Anu Garg A Word a Day: A Romp Through Some of the Most Unusual and Intriguing Words in English

One forgets words as one forgets names. One's vocabulary needs constant fertilizing or it will die. - Evelyn Waugh quote.

One forgets words as one forgets names.  One's vocabulary needs constant fertilizing or it will die.

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