Meaning: The quote "Diphthongs are indicated by combinations of hooks and circles" is attributed to John Gregg, the inventor of the Gregg shorthand system. This quote refers to the method of representing diphthongs, which are complex vowel sounds formed by the combination of two individual vowel sounds, in the Gregg shorthand system.

The Gregg shorthand system is a form of phonography, or a writing system that uses symbols to represent sounds. It was developed by John Robert Gregg in the late 19th century as a way to quickly and efficiently transcribe speech. One of the key features of the Gregg shorthand system is its use of symbols to represent not only consonants but also vowels and diphthongs.

In the context of the Gregg shorthand system, diphthongs are represented by combinations of hooks and circles. A diphthong is indicated by using a combination of symbols that represent the individual vowel sounds that make up the diphthong. This allows for the accurate representation of complex vowel sounds in a concise and efficient manner.

The use of hooks and circles to represent diphthongs in the Gregg shorthand system is a testament to the system's ingenuity and adaptability. By using these symbols, Gregg was able to create a shorthand system that could accurately capture the nuances of spoken language, including the complex variations in vowel sounds that occur in diphthongs.

The Gregg shorthand system has been widely used for over a century, particularly in the fields of stenography and transcription. Its ability to accurately and efficiently represent speech has made it a valuable tool for professionals who need to transcribe spoken language quickly and accurately.

In addition to its practical applications, the Gregg shorthand system also represents an important development in the history of writing systems. By creating a system that could accurately represent diphthongs and other complex speech sounds, John Gregg made a significant contribution to the field of phonography and demonstrated the potential for writing systems to adapt to the complexities of spoken language.

Overall, the quote "Diphthongs are indicated by combinations of hooks and circles" reflects the innovative approach taken by John Gregg in developing the Gregg shorthand system. By using symbols to represent diphthongs, Gregg was able to create a shorthand system that accurately captured the nuances of spoken language and provided a valuable tool for transcribing speech in a quick and efficient manner.