Jean Aitchison Quotes:

Word meanings are like stretchy pullovers, whose outline contour is visible, but whose detailed shape varies with use.

source: - Jean Aitchison (1997). “The Language Web: The Power and Problem of Words - The 1996 BBC Reith Lectures”, p.65, Cambridge University Press

Topics: Writing, Use, Shapes

Purists behave as if there was a vintage year when language achieved a measure of excellence which we should all strive to maintain. In fact, there was never such a year. The language of Chaucer's or Shakespeare's time was no better and no worse than that of our own - just different.

source: - Jean Aitchison (2013). “Language Change: Progress Or Decay?”, p.14, Cambridge University Press

Topics: Writing, Years, Vintage, Chaucer