Words; Their Use and Abuse

"Words; Their Use and Abuse" by William Mathews is a study of language from the 1800s. It examines the strength of words and the effects words have on human thinking and society. The book also highlights the common ways people misuse and abuse language. Mathews stresses how vital it is to choose one's words wisely and how important language is for communication and clear thought, and stresses the deep tie between language and thought. He explains that language is a gift given to mankind that sets us apart from beasts, and lets us share and understand ideas. Mathews says that words have a natural force, able to make different feelings and thoughts, and pushes people to know how to use words so that real communication is possible. The points he makes create a basis for the reader to look at the complexities of language, which he plans to go into in the book.