Mixed Metaphor Definition Rhetoric
When two or more metaphors or cliches are jumbled together often illogically we say that these comparisons are mixed.
Mixed metaphor definition rhetoric. It s important that writers construct proper metaphors so that the comparative meaning is not lost for the reader. The poetics which is about excellence in poetic works with an emphasis on tragedy and the rhetoric which is about the composition of persuasive speeches. An example might be. Metaphors are often compared with other types of figurative language such as antithesis hyperbole metonymy and simile.
Metaphor is an essential figure of speech for writers of both poetry and prose. A mixed metaphor is a succession of incongruous or ludicrous comparisons. Although many style guides condemn the use of mixed metaphors in practice most of the objectionable combinations as in the examples below are actually clichés or dead metaphors. I am tempted to believe that the indiscriminate condemnation of mixed metaphors arises more often from pedantry than from common sense edward everett hale jr.
As defined in our glossary a mixed metaphor is a succession of incongruous or ludicrous comparisons. Mixed metaphor definition the use in the same expression of two or more metaphors that are incongruous or illogical when combined as in the president will put the ship of state on its feet see more. Also known playfully as a mixaphor. One of the most commonly cited examples of a metaphor in english.
See full answer below. A metaphor is a figure of speech that for rhetorical effect directly refers to one thing by mentioning another. A mixed metaphor may also be used with. In fact metaphors are dependent on the understandable combination of a principal term and a secondary term.
They may come together to humorous effect. A combination of two or more different metaphors often producing a silly or humorous effect. Constructive rhetoric 1896 t o the fertile mind that thinks up a series of comparisons one gives admiration and defense against those who misunderstand the ban on mixed metaphors. When he is addressing knowledge or science in the strict sense as in posterior analytics metaphor is nowhere to be seen.
A mixed metaphor is an awkward combination of two unrelated metaphors.