Full Idea
We have at every moment only that very thought for which we have ready to hand the words that are roughly capable of expressing it.
Gist of Idea
What we think is totally dictated by the language available to express it
Source
Friedrich Nietzsche (Dawn (Daybreak) [1881], 257)
Book Reference
Nietzsche,Friedrich: 'Dawn (Daybreak) (v 5)', ed/tr. Smith, Brittain [Stanford 2011], p.176
A Reaction
This is a highly influential idea, even if this expression of it is little known. Everyone who places language at the centre of philosophy believes something like this. It is a very striking thought, and must certainly contain considerable truth.