6 Samuel Johnson Quotes on Language

Samuel Johnson quotes on language

61. Every quotation contributes something to the stability or enlargement of the language.

62. I am not so lost in lexicography as to forget that words are the daughters of earth, and that things are the sons of heaven.

67. LEXICOGRAPHER - A writer of dictionaries, a harmless drudge.

97. He delighted to tread upon the brink of meaning.

128. I [Boswell] happened to say, it would be terrible if he should not find a speedy opportunity of returning to London, and be confined in so dull a place. JOHNSON: 'Don't, Sir, accustom yourself to use big words for little matters. It would not be terrible, though I were to be detained some time here.'

206. Mrs. Digby told me that when she lived in London with her sister, Mrs. Brooke, they were every now and then honoured by the visits of Dr. Johnson. He called on them one day soon after the publication of his immortal dictionary. The two ladies paid him due compliments on the occasion. Amongst other topics of praise they very much commended the omission of all naughty words. 'What! my dears! then you have been looking for them?' said the moralist. The ladies, confused at being thus caught, dropped the subject of the dictionary.