Antanaclasis

Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Antanaclasis

Method | Example | Discussion | See also

Description

Antanaclasis is the repetition of a word, where the word has different meanings each time.

Example

If we do not hang together, we will hang separately.

Those who are not fired with enthusiasm, will be fired, with enthusiasm.

Will you have your will, Will? Then perhaps you will write your will.

Discussion

The effect of anatanaclasis is an initial confusion as a word just used, and hence with one meaning already in short-term memory, is repeated with a different meaning. This causes the listener to pause and think, thus creating attention to what is said.

Using antanaclasis displays an overt cleverness that perhaps seeks to impress the listener with the verbal dexterity of the speaker (though if the listener detects arrogance, perhaps it is the speaker that will get impressed by the listener ;).

Antanaclasis comes from Greek 'antanaklasis', meaning 'reflection' or 'echo'.

Classification: Repetition.