QQuestionEnglish
QuestionEnglish
"What does the phrase words are but wind mean? ""A man may break a word with you, sirl; and words are but wind."" 1. words are not firm or dependable. 2. words can be heard but not seen. 3. words can move objects in their path. 4. words may arise strongly and suddenly."
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Answer
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Step 1: Identify the meaning of the phrase "words are but wind."
The phrase "words are but wind" can be broken down into its components: "words" and "but wind." Here, "but" is used as an adverb meaning "only" or "merely." Therefore, the phrase can be interpreted as "words are merely wind."
Step 2: Understand the metaphorical meaning of "wind."
In this context, "wind" is used metaphorically to mean something that is insubstantial, powerless, or lacking in permanence. This is similar to the expression "puff of smoke," which also conveys a sense of transience and lack of substance.
Final Answer
The phrase "words are but wind" means that words are not firm or dependable.
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