Term: Malapropisms

Definition:

Mrs Malaprop was a character in a play by the British writer Sheridan who confused words and used incorrect words that sounded similar to the word she meant to say. If someone does this it is a Malapropism.

EXAMPLE OF A MALAPROPISM:

A politician is alleged to have said that he would support a colleague to the best of his "mobility", instead of "ability".

See Also: Irony; Hyperbole; Sarcasm; Slang; Jargon; Tautology; Understatement; Litotes; Rhetorical Question; Cliche; Allegory Portmanteau Word; Spoonerism

'Malapropisms' - Related Links

Grammar Topic:  Vocabulary

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