What are some famous quotes by linguists?

What are some famous quotes by linguists?

Here are a few famous quotes by linguists:

1. "Language is the road map of a culture. It tells you where its people come from and where they are going." - Rita Mae Brown
2. "The limits of my language mean the limits of my world." - Ludwig Wittgenstein
3. "Language is not only the vehicle of thought, it is a great and powerful instrument of thought." - Edward Sapir

Can you tell me more about Ludwig Wittgenstein's quote?

Certainly! Wittgenstein's quote emphasizes the idea that our understanding of the world is shaped by the language we use. If we lack the words to express certain concepts, our ability to think about them is also limited.

Are there any quotes about language and identity?

Yes! One notable quote is by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o: "Language is a carrier of culture. It is the vehicle of our identity." This highlights the deep connection between language and personal or cultural identity.

What about quotes from modern linguists?

A modern linguist, Steven Pinker, said, "Language is a window into human nature." This reflects how studying language can reveal insights about our thoughts and behaviors.