Explanation
The combination of words that sound similar but have different meanings. Phonetic similarity creates a tentative conceptual proximity that can be confirmed, broken, or used humorously.
Example
Atlas example: Phonetic similarity creates a preliminary conceptual proximity that can be confirmed, disrupted, or used for comic effect.
Counterexample
Mere formal similarity without the relationship characteristic of paronomasia.
Distinction
Distinction from antanaclasis: The decisive factor in paronomasia is the specific movement—phonetic proximity creates a tentative conceptual proximity that can be confirmed, broken, or used for comic effect.
Effect on thought and perception
Phonetic similarity creates a provisional conceptual proximity that can be confirmed, broken, or used for comic effect.
Resonance
Paronomasia makes a relationship perceptible as a directed change: Phonetic similarity creates a provisional conceptual proximity that can be confirmed, broken, or used for comic effect.
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Paronomasia“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-119-004. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-119-004The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.