antiphrases

/æntɪˈfrāziz/

Definitions

1. noun

Rhetorical expressions in which a word or phrase is used with the opposite meaning from its literal sense.

“The politician’s use of antiphrases in his speech confused many of his audience members.”

2. verb

To use or express something in a way that is opposite to its literal meaning.

“The poet antiphrased the beauty of war in his latest collection of poems.”

Synonyms

  • double entendres
  • euphemisms

Antonyms

  • clear language
  • literal expressions