CATACHRESIS Meaning and
Definition
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Catachresis is a rhetorical figure of speech that refers to the use of a word or phrase in a way that deviates from its conventional or proper meaning. It occurs when a speaker or writer employs a term in an unconventional, unexpected, or even incorrect manner, usually for the purpose of creating a striking or exaggerated effect or to convey a complex idea. In other words, catachresis involves using a word in a figurative or metaphorical sense that is perceptibly different from its original and established meaning.
This literary device is often implemented to achieve various effects, such as generating humor, emphasizing a point, or creating vivid imagery. By deliberately misusing or stretching the meaning of a word, catachresis can enable authors to deconstruct or challenge traditional language conventions, thereby adding depth and complexity to their writing.
Catachresis is commonly employed in poetry, where writers manipulate language to create unique and evocative metaphors or similes. Additionally, it may be found in other forms of literature, speeches, and even everyday conversations. Although catachresis may initially seem inappropriate or incorrect, it serves as a powerful tool to provoke thought and elicit a strong response from the audience or reader.
In summary, catachresis is a rhetorical technique that involves the deliberate misuse or unconventional application of a word to generate a particular effect or convey a nuanced meaning beyond its standard usage.
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In rhet., an abuse of a trope or of words; the use of a word in a sense different from its own.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for CATACHRESIS
- xatachresis
- vatachresis
- fatachresis
- datachresis
- cztachresis
- cstachresis
- cwtachresis
- cqtachresis
- carachresis
- cafachresis
- cagachresis
- cayachresis
- ca6achresis
- ca5achresis
- catzchresis
- catschresis
- catwchresis
- catqchresis
- cataxhresis
- catachesis
- Catechresls
- Catacleesis
- Cataclpseis
Etymology of CATACHRESIS
The word "catachresis" has its roots in Greek. It is derived from the Greek word "katákhrēsis" (κατάχρησις), which is a combination of two words: "kata" (κατά), meaning "down" or "against", and "chrēsis" (χρῆσις), meaning "use" or "action".
Therefore, "catachresis" essentially means "misuse" or "abuse" in Greek. It is often used in the context of language or rhetoric to describe the incorrect or strained use of a word or phrase that deviates from its proper meaning.
Similar spelling words for CATACHRESIS
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