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Malapropism for Dummies

noun

pronunciation: 'mæləprɑ,pɪzəm

What does Malapropism really mean?

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Hey there! So, a malapropism is when someone uses a word that sounds similar to the one they actually meant to use, but has a completely different meaning. It's like when you're talking and you accidentally say the wrong word that sounds similar to the right one, but changes the whole meaning of what you're trying to say.

Let me give you an example to help you understand better. Imagine if someone said, "I'm not the kind of person to tell a bold-faced lie," instead of "I'm not the kind of person to tell a bald-faced lie." See how the word "bold" sounds like "bald," but totally changes the meaning? That's a malapropism.

Another example could be when someone says, "I've got to put my best foot forward, even if it means taking extra storks." Instead of saying "taking extra steps." That would be a funny mix-up, right?

So, a malapropism is like a mix-up of words that sound similar, but have different meanings. It happens when someone uses the wrong word by mistake, and it can be pretty funny sometimes. I hope that makes sense to you! If you have any other questions, feel free to ask.

Revised and Fact checked by Olivia Davis on 2023-12-03 21:09:21

Malapropism In a sentece

Learn how to use Malapropism inside a sentece

  • Instead of saying 'I have a photographic memory,' the person says 'I have a photographic memory.'
  • Instead of saying 'I am not the sharpest tool in the shed,' the person says 'I am not the sharpest cookie in the jar.'
  • Instead of saying 'It's not rocket science,' the person says 'It's not brain surgery.'
  • Instead of saying 'I'm feeling under the weather,' the person says 'I'm feeling under the table.'
  • Instead of saying 'Rome wasn't built in a day,' the person says 'Rome wasn't burnt in a day.'

Malapropism Synonyms

Words that can be interchanged for the original word in the same context.

Malapropism Hypernyms

Words that are more generic than the original word.