Difference between revisions of "Malapropism"
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| − | A '''malapropism''' is the accidental misuse of a word, usually due to confusion with a [[linguistic]]ally similar word. Oftentimes, the use of a malapropism is quite [[humor]]ous. The term derives from a character, "Mrs. Malaprop," in the 1775 play "The Rivals" by [[Richard Brinsley Sheridan]]. | + | A '''malapropism''' is the accidental misuse of a word, or phrases, usually due to confusion with a [[linguistic]]ally similar word. Oftentimes, the use of a malapropism is quite [[humor]]ous. The term derives from a character, "Mrs. Malaprop," in the 1775 play "The Rivals" by [[Richard Brinsley Sheridan]]. |
An example of a malaprop would be referring to an "arduous romance" instead of an "ardent romance" or a "mute point" instead of a "moot point." | An example of a malaprop would be referring to an "arduous romance" instead of an "ardent romance" or a "mute point" instead of a "moot point." | ||
Revision as of 21:35, June 24, 2009
A malapropism is the accidental misuse of a word, or phrases, usually due to confusion with a linguistically similar word. Oftentimes, the use of a malapropism is quite humorous. The term derives from a character, "Mrs. Malaprop," in the 1775 play "The Rivals" by Richard Brinsley Sheridan.
An example of a malaprop would be referring to an "arduous romance" instead of an "ardent romance" or a "mute point" instead of a "moot point."
Often the humor is derived from the suggestive nature of the malapropism, as in the following examples:
- stimulated snakeskin shoes (stimulated = simulated)
- erotic 15 inch houseplant (erotic = exotic)
- let's simonize our watches (from Amos and Andy: simonize = synchronize)
- you've got me in suspenders (suspenders = suspense)