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We are thus able to distinguish thinking as the function which is to a large extent linguistic.

— Benjamin Lee Whorf Language, thought and reality (1956)

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More quotes by Benjamin Lee Whorf

We dissect nature along lines laid down by our native language.

Language, thought and reality (1956)

Speech is the best show a man puts on.

Language, thought and reality (1956)

The very natural tendency to use terms derived from traditional grammar like verb, noun, adjective, passive voice, in describing languages outside of Indo-European is fraught with grave possibilities of misunderstanding.

Whorf (1937)

Most metaphysical words in Hopi are verbs, not nouns as in European languages. The verb tunatya contains in its idea of hope something of our words 'thought,' 'desire,' and 'cause,' which sometimes must be used to translate it.

Language, thought and reality (1956)

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