paralipsis Definition
the rhetorical device of emphasizing a point by seeming to pass over it.
Using paralipsis: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "paralipsis" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
I won't mention the fact that my opponent was arrested for embezzlement.
Example
I don't want to talk about the rumors going around, but some people are saying...
Example
I'm not going to bring up the time you were late to the meeting again.
paralipsis Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for paralipsis
- apophasis
- preterition
- praeteritio
Phrases with paralipsis
praeteritio
a form of irony in which one mentions something in order to say that it will not be mentioned
Example
I won't even mention the fact that he's been married three times.
the raising of an issue by claiming not to mention it
Example
I'm not going to talk about the rumors that have been circulating about my opponent.
the act of passing over or disregarding a matter, especially in a deliberate way
Example
I won't even bring up the fact that you were fired from your last job.
Origins of paralipsis
from Greek 'paraleipลsis', meaning 'omission'
Summary: paralipsis in Brief
'Paralipsis' [par-uh-lip-sis] is a rhetorical device that emphasizes a point by seeming to pass over it. It is often used in political speeches and debates, as well as in everyday conversation, to draw attention to a sensitive or controversial topic without directly addressing it. Examples include 'I won't mention the fact that my opponent was arrested for embezzlement' and 'I don't want to talk about the rumors going around.' Synonyms for 'paralipsis' include 'apophasis,' 'praeteritio,' and 'preterition.'
