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'When I use a word,' Humpty Dumpty said in rather a scornful tone, 'it means just what I choose it to mean - neither more nor less.'
Lewis Carroll
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Words hold meanings determined by the speaker, highlighting the subjective nature of language.

This quote from Lewis Carroll's 'Through the Looking-Glass' features Humpty Dumpty asserting his belief that the meaning of words is defined by the individual using them. It suggests that language is not a fixed set of definitions but rather a fluid entity shaped by personal interpretation and context, raising questions about communication, understanding, and the power dynamics involved in language.

Themes

LanguageMeaningSubjectivityCommunicationInterpretation

In practice

Example use cases

In a debate about free speech, this quote can illustrate the idea of personal interpretation of words.

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