It is one of the aims of linguistics to define itself, to recognise what belongs within its domain. In those cases where it relies upon psychology, it will do so indirectly, remaining independent.

The connection between the signifier and the signified is arbitrary.

Written forms obscure our view of language. They are not so much a garment as a disguise.

Nearly all institutions, it might be said, are based on signs, but these signs do not directly evoke things.

I’m almost never serious, and I’m always too serious. Too deep, too shallow. Too sensitive, too cold hearted. I’m like a collection of paradoxes.

Time changes all things; there is no reason why language should escape this universal law

Of all social institutions language is least amenable to initiative. It blends with the life of society, and the latter, inert by nature, is a prime conservative force.