Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
solecism
noun
/ˈsɒl.ə.sɪ.zəm/
Definition
A grammatical mistake in speech or writing, or a deviation from the conventional rules of language.
Examples
- Using ‘less’ instead of ‘fewer’ is a common solecism.
- The student’s essay was marked down for several solecisms that disrupted the flow of his argument.
- Despite his eloquence, he committed a solecism that made his speech less persuasive.
Meaning
Solecism refers to an error in the use of language that may involve incorrect grammar, awkward phrasing, or nonstandard usage.
Synonyms
- grammatical error
- blunder
- mistake
- usage error
