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Antanaclasis
01
a rhetorical device in which a word is repeated, but with a different meaning each time
Grammatical Information
Animacy status
Abstract
Composition
Compound
Countable
Plural form
antanaclases
What is "antanaclasis"?
Antanaclasis is a rhetorical device where a word is repeated in a sentence, but with a different meaning each time. This repetition creates a play on words that can add emphasis or a clever twist to the statement. For example, in the phrase "If you are not fired with enthusiasm, you will be fired with enthusiasm", the word "fired" is used with two different meanings, one related to being dismissed from a job and the other to being filled with energy. This technique highlights a contrast or creates a humorous effect by playing with the word's multiple meanings.
