mixed metaphor

mixed metaphor
the use in the same expression of two or more metaphors that are incongruous or illogical when combined, as in "The president will put the ship of state on its feet."
[1790-1800]

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Universalium. 2010.

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Look at other dictionaries:

  • mixed metaphor — see metaphor and simile 2 …   Modern English usage

  • mixed metaphor — ► NOUN ▪ a combination of incompatible metaphors (e.g. this tower of strength will forge ahead) …   English terms dictionary

  • mixed metaphor — n. the use of two or more inconsistent metaphors in a single expression (Ex.; the storm of protest was nipped in the bud) …   English World dictionary

  • mixed metaphor — noun a combination of two or more metaphors that together produce a ridiculous effect • Hypernyms: ↑metaphor * * * noun, pl ⋯ phors [count] : a metaphor that combines different images or ideas in a way that is foolish or illogical “If we want to… …   Useful english dictionary

  • mixed metaphor — UK / US noun [countable] Word forms mixed metaphor : singular mixed metaphor plural mixed metaphors linguistics a combination of metaphors that sounds silly because it creates a strange image in your mind She s forever using mixed metaphors like… …   English dictionary

  • mixed metaphor — mixed′ met′aphor n. an expression combining incongruous metaphors, as in putting the ship of state on its feet[/ex] • Etymology: 1790–1800 …   From formal English to slang

  • mixed metaphor — /mɪkst ˈmɛtəfɔ/ (say mikst metuhfaw) noun See metaphor (def. 2) …  

  • mixed metaphor — noun Date: 1800 a figure of speech combining inconsistent or incongruous metaphors …   New Collegiate Dictionary

  • mixed metaphor — noun An overreaching or even contradictory combination of two distinct metaphors, similes or idioms …   Wiktionary

  • mixed metaphor — noun a combination of incompatible metaphors (e.g. this tower of strength will forge ahead) …   English new terms dictionary

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