Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
catachresis
Noun
/ˌkæt.əˈkreɪ.sɪs/
Definition
The misuse of a word or the use of a wrong word for the context.
Examples
- “He has a heart of stone, but his soft words can melt anyone’s heart.” This is a catachresis because ‘heart of stone’ and ‘soft words’ are used in opposing contexts.
- “The chair is a real beach, sitting in it feels like being on vacation!” Here, referring to a chair as a ‘beach’ is a misuse of the term but evokes vivid imagery.
Meaning
Catachresis often refers to a figure of speech that applies a word in an unconventional way, creating a striking or unusual effect.
Synonyms
- Misuse
- Impropriety
- Contradiction
