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Mixed Metaphor Definition and Meaning A mixed metaphor, shortened as “mixaphor,” is a figurative device that occurs when two metaphors are mixed up creating an incongruous comparison. A mixed metaphor, sometimes also called a “malaphor,” is an implicit comparison, that is often overarching, contradictory, or incompatible, between two or more dissimilar metaphors, similes, or idioms .
Jun 6, 2019 · Updated on June 06, 2019. A mixed metaphor is a succession of incongruous or ludicrous comparisons. Also known—playfully—as a mixaphor. Although many style guides condemn the use of mixed metaphors, in practice most of the objectionable combinations (as in the examples below) are actually clichés or dead metaphors.
- Richard Nordquist
Jun 21, 2022 · Mixed Metaphors Explained: 8 Examples of Mixed Metaphors. A well-crafted metaphor uses consistent imagery ("hitting the nail on the head”); when you start mixing imagery ("hitting the nail on the nose"), you can create a type of malapropism known as a mixed metaphor. A well-crafted metaphor uses consistent imagery ("hitting the nail on the ...
May 30, 2019 · Examples of Mixed Metaphors. "So now what we are dealing with is the rubber meeting the road, and instead of biting the bullet on these issues, we just want to punt." " [T]he bill is mostly a stew of spending on existing programs, whatever their warts may be." "A friend of mine, talking about the Democratic presidential candidates, tossed out a ...
- Richard Nordquist
A mixed metaphor is a mixture of two or more dissimilar, figurative elements, like metaphors, similes, and idioms, which in turn, lead to the silly or even confusing effect. This is likely to occur when you are creative and borrow ideas from various quarters or contexts potentially rendering your statement nonsensical or with disjointed ideas.
Aug 16, 2024 · Mixed Metaphor Examples in Literature. Literary texts are often a rich source of metaphors. Mixed metaphors in literature, sometimes intentional and other times inadvertent, add a layer of complexity or even humor to a narrative. These literature metaphor examples highlight the interplay of disparate metaphoric elements within literary contexts.
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Aug 11, 2023 · A metaphor is a figure of speech that implicitly compares two unrelated things, typically by stating that one thing is another (e.g., “that chef is a magician”). Metaphors can be used to create vivid imagery, exaggerate a characteristic or action, or express a complex idea. Metaphors are commonly used in literature, advertising, and ...
