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A language is something infinitely greater than grammar and philology. It is the poetic testament of the genius of a race and a culture, and the living embodiment of the thoughts and fancies that have moulded them
Jawaharlal Nehru
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Language embodies the essence of a culture, transcending mere grammatical rules.

This quote by Jawaharlal Nehru emphasizes that language is not just a set of rules or a subject of study, but a deep reflection of a culture's identity and creativity. It highlights how language captures the unique thoughts, emotions, and experiences of a people, showcasing their intellectual and artistic heritage throughout history.

Themes

LanguageCultureIdentityExpressionCommunication

In practice

Example use cases

During a lecture on cultural studies, this quote can be used to highlight the importance of language in understanding societal values.

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