"About the use of language: it is impossible to sharpen a pencil with a blunt axe. It is equally vain to try to do it with ten blunt axes instead"
- Edsger Dijkstra
About this Quote
This quote by Edsger Dijkstra is a metaphor for the importance of language. It is stating that if you want to accomplish something, you require to utilize the right tools. In this case, the tool is language. If you want to hone a pencil, you need to use a sharp axe. If you use a blunt axe, you won't be able to hone the pencil. Similarly, if you use ten blunt axes, you still will not be able to hone the pencil. This metaphor is a tip that language is a powerful tool and must be used thoroughly and successfully. It is important to use the right words and phrases to communicate successfully and get the preferred results. If you utilize the wrong words, you won't be able to attain your objectives. For that reason, it is very important to utilize language sensibly and carefully.
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