catachresis (Meaning)
catachresis (n)
strained or paradoxical use of words either in error (as `blatant' to mean `flagrant') or deliberately (as in a mixed metaphor: `blind mouths')
catachresis (n.)
A figure by which one word is wrongly put for another, or by which a word is wrested from its true signification; as, To take arms against a sea of troubles. Shak. Her voice was but the shadow of a sound. Young.
Synonyms & Antonyms of catachresis
Synonyms:
catachresis Sentence Examples
- In literature, catachresis often occurs when a writer uses a metaphor in an unconventional or strained manner.
- The poet's use of catachresis in describing the storm as a "roaring beast" created a vivid yet unexpected image.
- Politicians sometimes employ catachresis to manipulate language for their own purposes, stretching metaphors beyond their typical meanings.
- The comedian's catachresis of comparing his messy room to a war zone elicited laughter from the audience.
- Catachresis can be a powerful rhetorical device when used effectively, adding depth and complexity to language.
- Critics may point out instances of catachresis in a writer's work as evidence of lazy or careless writing.
- In everyday conversation, catachresis can occur when a word is used incorrectly due to a misunderstanding of its meaning.
- The advertisement's catachresis of describing the product as "life-changing" seemed exaggerated and implausible.
- Teachers often encourage students to experiment with catachresis in their writing to expand their creative expression.
- Linguists study catachresis as part of their investigation into how language evolves and changes over time.
FAQs About the word catachresis
strained or paradoxical use of words either in error (as `blatant' to mean `flagrant') or deliberately (as in a mixed metaphor: `blind mouths')A figure by which
simile, mixed metaphor, code word, metaphor, circumlocution, analogy, euphemism,dead metaphor,crank, conceit
No antonyms found.
In literature, catachresis often occurs when a writer uses a metaphor in an unconventional or strained manner.
The poet's use of catachresis in describing the storm as a "roaring beast" created a vivid yet unexpected image.
Politicians sometimes employ catachresis to manipulate language for their own purposes, stretching metaphors beyond their typical meanings.
The comedian's catachresis of comparing his messy room to a war zone elicited laughter from the audience.
