Metonymy - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Metonymy is a figure of speech where a thing or concept is referred to by the name of something closely associated with it, such as the crown for royalty.
Definition:
A figure of speech where a related term substitutes for the actual word.
Synonyms:
substitution, trope, figure of speech
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
literal expression, direct reference
Common Collocations:
literary device, rhetorical figure, linguistic substitution
Derivatives:
metonymic, metonymically
Usage Tips:
Use metonymy to add depth by replacing a word with something closely associated with it.
Common Phrases:
"The crown" for monarchy, "The White House" for the U.S. government, "The pen is mightier than the sword"
Etymology:
From Greek *metōnymia*, meaning "change of name."
Examples:
- 1. "The White House issued a statement" uses metonymy to refer to the president.
- 2. "She loves Shakespeare" employs metonymy by substituting the author for his works.
- 3. "The pen is mightier than the sword" contrasts ideas using metonymy.
- 4. "He works in Hollywood" replaces the film industry with its iconic location.