dictionary.pt

dictionary.pt

antiphrasis

nounfemininetechnicaluncommon/ɐ̃.ti.ˈfɾa.zɨ/an·tí·fra·se

Definition

1

A figure of speech in which a word or phrase is used to mean the opposite of its usual sense, typically for ironic effect.

Usage examples

Calling a very tall person 'Shorty' is a common example of antiphrasis.
The author's use of antiphrasis added a layer of sarcasm to the narrative.

Synonyms

Common combinations

use of antiphrasisfigure of speech antiphrasis