Jean Aitchison

Image of Jean Aitchison
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.
- Jean Aitchison
Collection: Writing
Image of Jean Aitchison
Word meanings are like stretchy pullovers, whose outline contour is visible, but whose detailed shape varies with use.
- Jean Aitchison
Collection: Writing