periphrasis etymology

Etymology:

  • Derived from the Greek word "periphrasis," meaning "roundabout expression" or "circumlocution."

Meaning:

Periphrasis is a figure of speech that replaces a single word or phrase with a longer, more roundabout expression.

Origin:

Periphrasis has been used as a rhetorical device for centuries. Its origins can be traced back to ancient Greek rhetoric, where it was used to create emphasis and elevate language. In Renaissance literature and prose, periphrasis became a popular way to add elegance and complexity to writing.

Examples:

  • The nocturnal orb (instead of "the moon")
  • The gift of gab (instead of "eloquence")
  • To join in matrimony (instead of "to get married")
  • To depart this mortal coil (instead of "to die")
  • The emerald isle (instead of "Ireland")

Purpose:

Periphrasis can be used for a variety of purposes, including:

  • Emphasis: By using a longer, more descriptive expression, the speaker or writer can draw attention to a particular word or idea.
  • Emotive effect: Periphrasis can evoke specific emotions or associations in the reader.
  • Style and tone: The choice of periphrasis can indicate the style and tone of writing.
  • Circumlocution: In some cases, periphrasis is used to avoid using a more direct or controversial expression.

periphrasis relate terms

  • phrase

    Etymology is the study of the origin and development of words It involves examining the h

  • phreno

    Etymology The word phreno originates from the Ancient Greek word phrēn which means

  • circumlocution

    Etymology Latin circumlocutio circum around locutus past participle of loq

  • circum

    Etymology The word circum comes from the Latin word circum which means around or

  • periphrasis

    Etymology Derived from the Greek word periphrasis meaning roundabout expression or

  • reliable

    Etymology Origin Latin reliabilis Components re prefix meaning back or aga

  • kenning

    Etymology Old Norse kenning knowledge recognition Meaning A kennning is a type

  • mature

    Etymology The word mature derives from the Latin word maturus meaning ripe full gr

  • moment

    Etymology Derived from Latin momentum meaning movement impetus or weight Originate

  • problem

    Etymology Greek πρόβλημα problema obstacle question Latin problema di

  • metastasis

    Etymology The word metastasis is derived from the Greek word μετάστασις meta

  • bingo

    Etymology The word bingo is thought to have originated from the French word bingot wh

  • elegant

    Etymology The word elegant originates from the Latin word eligere meaning to choos

  • commission

    Etymology The word commission comes from Old French commission which derives from L