Pun: Difference between revisions

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== Pun ==
== Pun ==


An expression that achieves emphasis or humor by contriving an ambiguity, two distinct meanings being suggested either by the same word (polysemy) or by two similar-sounding words (homophone) (Baldick 209).
An expression that achieves emphasis or humor by contriving an ambiguity, two distinct meanings being suggested either by the same word (polysemy) or by two similar-sounding words (homophone) (Baldick 209).  
The conflating of homonyms and near-homonyms to produce a humorous effect, or a comparable play on words and phrases with similar sounds, sometimes requiring the [often forced] adaptation of one word or phrase to fit the other (McArthur 822).
 
 


In the terminology of rhetoric, punning is regarded as a figure of speech and known as paranomasia (Baldick 209).
In the terminology of rhetoric, punning is regarded as a figure of speech and known as paranomasia (Baldick 209).


For further reading, see also double entendre and/or equivoque.
= Examples =
 
* ''Is life worth living? - It depends on the liver.''


* ''At his funeral, four of his drinking companions carried the bier.''


For further reading, see also double entendre and/or equivoque.


== Works Cited ==
== Works Cited ==


* Baldick, Chris. Concise Dictionary of Literary Terms. Oxford University Press, 2004.
* Baldick, Chris. Concise Dictionary of Literary Terms. Oxford University Press, 2004.
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