Another Word For Zeugma

Meaning

The term "zeugma" refers to a literary device in which a single word, usually a verb or an adjective, is used to modify or govern two or more words in a sentence, although it may only apply to one in a literal context. This often creates a unique or unexpected relationship between the words, adding depth, humor, or complexity to the expression.

Synonyms

• Synecdoche
• Asyndeton
• Ellipsis

Antonyms

• Clarity
• Redundancy
• Ambiguity

Etymology

The word "zeugma" comes from the Greek "zeugnynai," meaning "to yoke together." This reflects the idea of linking two different ideas or concepts with a single term.

Examples

1. "She broke his car and his heart." (Here, "broke" applies to both "car" and "heart," yet they represent different contexts.)
2. "He lost his coat and his temper." (In this case, "lost" governs both "coat" and "temper," although they are unrelated.)
3. "The farmer plowed the field and his dreams." (The verb "plowed" encapsulates a literal action and a more metaphorical aspiration.)