paronomasia Definition
the use of words that sound similar or identical to create a humorous or rhetorical effect.
Using paronomasia: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "paronomasia" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
I used to be a baker, but I couldn't make enough dough.
Example
A bicycle can't stand on its own because it's two-tired.
Example
I'm reading a book on the history of glue - I just can't seem to put it down.
paronomasia Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with paronomasia
the excessive use of puns or wordplay
Example
The comedian's routine was filled with paronomasia ad nauseam, leaving the audience groaning and rolling their eyes.
the use of puns or wordplay in advertising to create a memorable and catchy slogan or tagline
Example
The company's new ad campaign relied heavily on paronomasia in advertising, with slogans like 'We're not lion - our products are the mane attraction!'
the use of puns or wordplay in literature to create a humorous or ironic effect
Example
The author's use of paronomasia in literature added a lighthearted tone to an otherwise serious novel.
Origins of paronomasia
from Greek 'paronomazein', meaning 'to call with a slight change of name'
Summary: paronomasia in Brief
The term 'paronomasia' [ˌpærənəʊˈmeɪzɪə] refers to the use of words that sound similar or identical to create a humorous or rhetorical effect. Examples include 'I used to be a baker, but I couldn't make enough dough,' and 'A bicycle can't stand on its own because it's two-tired.' Paronomasia can be used excessively, as in 'paronomasia ad nauseam,' or in advertising and literature to create a memorable and catchy slogan or add humor to a serious work.
