Antiphrasis
the antiphrasis comes from the Greek antiphrasis (anti=contre; phrasis=phrase). It is a figure of Rhétorique consisting in saying the opposite of what one thinks. It is a primarily ironic figure. The context is important, since it makes it possible to discover if a sentence is ironic or not.
For example, to say “ it is the life of castle, provided that lasts! ” whereas the living conditions are difficult, is an antiphrasis.
“ Cheer! Continue like that! You are on the right track! … ” is an antiphrasis if that which pronounces it does not think a mot. of them.
Or: " the antiphrasis is the ultimate expression of sincerity " is an antiphrasis.
“ did one never see anything of more impertinent? A father to come to make remonstrances with his/her son, and to say to him to correct its actions, to ressouvenir themselves of its birth, to carry out a life of honest man, and hundred other stupidities of similar nature! ” (Sganarelle - Molière, Dom Juan)
EXAMPLE: " What a beautiful day! " context: if it rains with pours since the morning, the sentence is ironic. It is about an antiphrasis.
External bonds
- Québécois Office of the French language
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