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catachresis

 

Definitions from WordNet

Noun catachresis has 1 sense
  1. catachresis - strained or paradoxical use of words either in error (as `blatant' to mean `flagrant') or deliberately (as in a mixed metaphor: `blind mouths')
    --1 is a kind of
    rhetorical device

Definitions from the Web

Catachresis

Definition

Catachresis is a rhetorical figure of speech that involves the incorrect or strained use of words in a nonstandard or unusual way. It often involves using a word in a metaphorical sense that is not typically associated with that particular word.

Senses and Usages:

Sense 1:

Noun: The incorrect or strained use of words.

Example: His catachresis of the term "literally" in that context made everyone in the room raise their eyebrows.

Sense 2:

Noun: The use of an expression in a local or popular fashion.

Example: In the local dialect, the catachresis of "ain't" instead of "isn't" is common.

Sense 3:

Verb: To use words incorrectly or strain their meaning.

Example: The author powerfully catachresised metaphors throughout his novel to convey a sense of disorientation.

Sense 4:

Adjective: Pertaining to the incorrect or strained use of words.

Example: The comedian's catachresis jokes were a hit with the audience, despite their unconventional nature.

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