Antiphrasis
An Introduction to Antiphrasis
Antiphrasis (derives from Greek word ‘antiphrazein’ meaning “to express by negation”), is a kind of EuphemismOpens in new window which consists in the use of a word in an opposite sense to the proper meaning.
The trope was commonly used by the HeathensOpens in new window under the influence of superstition; in attempt to avoid the shocking idea of blasphemyOpens in new window in sacred writings and likewise to avoid sacrilegious offence against the notion of public decency. Thus, a harsh word was often substituted for a pleasant one.
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