Metonym
noun
A word or phrase that is used to stand in for another word or phrase that is closely related to it.
In the phrase 'The White House issued a statement,' 'The White House' is a metonym for the U.S. government.
Often appears as...
- metonym for
- common metonyms
Usage tips
Neutral
General, Literary, Technical
noun
A word or phrase that is used to stand in for another word or phrase that is closely related to it.
In the phrase 'The White House issued a statement,' 'The White House' is a metonym for the U.S. government.
Often appears as...
- metonym for
- common metonyms
Usage tips
Neutral
General, Literary, Technical
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Understanding Metonymy
Metonymy can change the meaning based on context.
'The Crown' refers to royal authority in literature.
Pro Tip 2/3Using Metonymy in Writing
Writers use metonymy to create richer imagery.
Saying 'Hollywood' for the American film industry is an example.
Pro Tip 3/3Metonymy vs. Metaphor
Both are figurative language, but metonymy uses related terms.
'The pen is mightier than the sword' uses metonymy by linking writing and warfare.
Pro Tip 1/3Understanding Metonymy
Metonymy can change the meaning based on context.
'The Crown' refers to royal authority in literature.
Pro Tip 2/3Using Metonymy in Writing
Writers use metonymy to create richer imagery.
Saying 'Hollywood' for the American film industry is an example.
Pro Tip 3/3Metonymy vs. Metaphor
Both are figurative language, but metonymy uses related terms.
'The pen is mightier than the sword' uses metonymy by linking writing and warfare.
Pro Tip 1/3Understanding Metonymy
Metonymy can change the meaning based on context.
'The Crown' refers to royal authority in literature.
Pro Tip 2/3Using Metonymy in Writing
Writers use metonymy to create richer imagery.
Saying 'Hollywood' for the American film industry is an example.
Pro Tip 3/3Metonymy vs. Metaphor
Both are figurative language, but metonymy uses related terms.
'The pen is mightier than the sword' uses metonymy by linking writing and warfare.
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