What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
paronomasia
Example
The comedian's act was full of clever paronomasia. [paronomasia: noun]
Example
The politician used paronomasia to make a point in his speech. [paronomasia: noun]
pun
Example
The stand-up comedian's jokes were full of clever puns. [pun: noun]
Example
She made a pun about the broken pencil, but it was pointless. [pun: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pun is more commonly used than paronomasia in everyday language, especially in informal contexts such as comedy and advertising. Paronomasia is more commonly used in literary and rhetorical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between paronomasia and pun?
Paronomasia is more formal and literary than pun, which is often associated with informal language and humor. Therefore, paronomasia is more appropriate for formal writing and speeches, while pun is more suitable for informal conversations and entertainment contexts.
