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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.

metonymy

/məˈtɑnəmi/ /mɪˈtɒnɪmi/

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.

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