Introduction

The limits of my language mean the limits of my world.

—Ludwig Wittgenstein

“Meow” means “woof” in cat.

—George Carlin

It’s always dangerous to write a book about language. Should we have said work instead of book, or, perhaps, tome? Is it actually dangerous or merely fretful ? This kind of self-editing and search for perfection can undermine excellence, and even completion.

Thus, we’re after success, not perfection.

Our intent is to provide you with questions, phrasing, responses, and linguistic arabesques that will accelerate your speed, influence others, and gain your objectives. We sometimes consider these approaches the martial arts of language. We don’t mean to be slick or overpowering, just smart enough to ...

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