What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
metonymous
Example
The White House issued a statement today. [metonymous: the White House is used to represent the US government]
Example
The pen is mightier than the sword. [metonymous: pen is used to represent writing or literature]
metonymical
Example
The suits on Wall Street are worried about the stock market. [metonymical: suits are used to represent businessmen or investors]
Example
The crown has announced a new policy. [metonymical: crown is used to represent the monarchy or government]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Metonymous is more commonly used than metonymical in literary and rhetorical contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between metonymous and metonymical?
Both metonymous and metonymical are formal words that are not commonly used in everyday language. They are more frequently used in academic and literary contexts.
