Syllepsis
Definition:
The device syllepsis comes into play when a single word that influences or regulates two or more than two other words needs to be comprehended individually and in light of every particular ensuing word. Syllepsis is often used for a comical, wry and witty effect.
Example:
a) Jack lost his car keys and his cool.
b) Mary was unable to keep a check on her children or her temper.
Comments
10 comments postedOne of my favorites: Irish Air motto: "We serve seven cities and Irish ale."
that is NOT syllepsis, you can only use the modifier (verb referring to two items etc.) once.
She hid away her wedding ring and any second thoughts.
He's leaving for new horizons and two weeks.
when she put away her wedding ring, she put away her fidelity
Are Zeugma and Syllepsis the same thing?
yes!
yes. why do we need two?
Syllepsis is usually referring to instances of zeugma where the modifier (such as a verb referring to two items, etc.) has a drastically different impact on the different words modified and is usually to a witty or comical end.
It's kinda like alliteration. Maybe. Have a merry Christmas everyone. Jesus love you. God bless. From Maria.
The examples do have alliteration but I believe that's purely coincedential. Another example would be "Josh fell down and with him his pride."
this is quite interesting
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