PARALIPSIS Meaning and
Definition
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Paralipsis, derived from the Greek word "paraleipein," meaning "to leave aside," is a rhetorical device where the speaker or writer draws attention to something in a seemingly casual manner, while actually emphasizing it by pretending to pass over it. Also known as apophasis or praeteritio, paralipsis serves as a cunning method to indirectly address or discuss a sensitive topic or an offensive remark, with the intention of bringing it to the forefront of the listener's or reader's mind.
By deliberately mentioning that something will be ignored or omitted, the writer or speaker raises curiosity and intrigue among the audience, as they are now compelled to pay closer attention to the very thing excluded. While appearing to dismiss or avoid discussing a particular subject, paralipsis cunningly steers the conversation toward the unsaid, leaving a lingering impact on the thoughts and opinions of the audience.
Paralipsis, as a figure of speech, is often employed for rhetorical effects in speeches, debates, political discourses, and even works of literature. It offers a subtle means for expressing delicate ideas, critiquing others without directly confronting them, or even highlighting one's own virtue by feigning modesty or objectivity. Through the skillful use of paralipsis, writers and speakers can manipulate the power of suggestion, innuendo, or insinuation to influence their audience's perception and understanding of a given subject or situation.
Common Misspellings for PARALIPSIS
- oaralipsis
- laralipsis
- -aralipsis
- 0aralipsis
- pzralipsis
- psralipsis
- pwralipsis
- pqralipsis
- paealipsis
- padalipsis
- pafalipsis
- patalipsis
- pa5alipsis
- pa4alipsis
- parzlipsis
- parslipsis
- parwlipsis
- parqlipsis
- parakipsis
Etymology of PARALIPSIS
The word "paralipsis" derives from the Ancient Greek term "paráleipsis", which is a compound word consisting of "para" meaning "beside" or "beyond", and "leipsis" meaning "leaving", "omitting", or "passing over". Thus, the literal meaning of "paralipsis" is "to let beside", "to leave to the side", or "to pass over". In rhetoric, "paralipsis" refers to a figure of speech where the speaker or writer claims to not mention something, while in fact bringing attention to it.
Similar spelling words for PARALIPSIS
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