Quotes by William Safire

William Lewis Safir, better known as William Safire, was an American author, columnist, journalist, and presidential speechwriter. He was a long-time syndicated political columnist for The New York Times and wrote the "On Language" column in The New York Times Magazine about popular etymology, new or unusual usages, and other language-related topics.

The best Quotes and Sayings

The right to do something does not mean that doing it is right.

Morality & EthicsWilliam Safire
 
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Is sloppiness in speech caused by ignorance or apathy? I don't know and I don't care.

William Safire
 
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Sometimes I know the meaning of a word but am tired of it and feel the need for an unfamiliar, especially precise or poetic term, perhaps one with a nuance that flatters my readership's exquisite sensitivity.

William Safire
 
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A reader ought to be able to hold it and become familiar with its organized contents and make it a mind's manageable companion.

William Safire
 
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Never assume the obvious is true.

William Safire
 
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