ATLAS OF LANGUAGE

AT-HAR-0008 · ATLAS 251

Antiphrase

The use of an expression in a sense that is clearly opposite to its literal meaning, as indicated by context.

Explanation

Antiphrase causes what is said to work against the situation. Literal praise can become criticism because context and tone force an alternative interpretation.

Example

“You handled that brilliantly”—after everything fell apart.

Counterexample

“You handled that poorly.”—direct criticism without explicitly stating it.

Distinction

Distinguish from irony: Antiphrase more narrowly refers to the reversal of a specific expression.

Effect on thought and perception

Trains the ability to derive meaning from the conflict between the wording and the situation.

Resonance

The stated meaning evokes its opposite as the intended direction.

Cite this entry

Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Antiphrase“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-HAR-0008. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-HAR-0008

https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-HAR-0008

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