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Meaning
The speaker is saying that younger sisters often describe their older sisters as controlling and critical. It suggests this complaint comes up so often that it feels familiar and widespread. The quote also points to a recurring pattern in sibling relationships.
When It Was Said
Not documented yet.
Who It Was Said To
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Historical Context
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Source
Not documented yet.
Original Language & Translation
Originally said in English.
Did They Really Say It?
No source found on Wikiquote; the quote is listed as attributed to Deborah Tannen.
Did You Know?
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About Deborah Tannen
American author and linguist
Deborah Tannen is an American author and linguist, associated with Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. She is best known for You Just Don't Understand, and has 105 quotes on the site. She has also served as a McGraw Distinguished Lecturer at Princeton University. Her work and academic roles place her in the study of language and communication, especially the ways people understand one another.
More from Deborah Tannen (105 quotes) →Keep reading Deborah Tannen
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- “A sister is someone who owns part of what you own: a house, perhaps, or a less tangible legacy, like memories…”Deborah Tannen