ATLAS OF LANGUAGE

AT-HAR-0006 · ATLAS 251

Anantapodoton

A construction in which only one part of an announced multi-part juxtaposition is realized.

Explanation

The form introduces an alternative or pairing but omits the expected counterpart. The missing element remains present as a structured expectation.

Example

Either we start now …

Counterexample

Either we start now, or we postpone it. – fully realized correlation.

Distinction

Distinguish from aposiopesis: Here, the corresponding structural element is intentionally omitted, not merely an arbitrary continuation.

Effect on thought and perception

Triggers supplementary work and can particularly strongly highlight the unspoken second option.

Resonance

A named element invokes its structural partner without allowing it to appear.

Cite this entry

Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Anantapodoton“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-HAR-0006. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-HAR-0006

https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-HAR-0006

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