Malapropism-2

Introduction

A malapropism is a literary device characterized by the unintentional substitution of a word with another word that sounds similar but has a completely different meaning. This often results in humorous or absurd expressions due to the incongruity between the intended and actual word used. They serve to create comedic effects, enhance characterization, and emphasize linguistic nuances within a literary work.

Creating a Malapropism: Steps to Add Humor and Satire

Step	Explanation	Practical Example
Vocabulary Selection	Choose a word that sounds similar to the intended word but has a different meaning. This creates the basis for the humor when the two meanings collide.	Intended word: “profound” Malapropism: “profane” Example: “She had a profane impact on me.”
Contextual Setup	Establish a situation where the intended word would naturally fit. This context prepares the reader for the expected usage before revealing the malapropism.	Intended word: “refined” Malapropism: “refinery” Example: “His refinery taste in literature always impressed me.”
Character Alignment	Ensure the character committing the malapropism possesses traits that make the mistake plausible. These traits lend credibility and humor to the linguistic slip.	Character: A lovable but linguistically challenged grandmother Intended word: “adventurous” Malapropism: “adventurous” Example: “Grandma embarked on an adventurous journey to the grocery store every day.”
Timing and Delivery	Choose a strategic moment to introduce the malapropism. Consider the pacing of dialogue and narrative flow to maximize the comedic impact of the unexpected substitution.	Intended word: “relieved” Malapropism: “relished” Example: “I relished a sigh of relief when the exam was over.”
Reaction Depiction	Portray the reactions of other characters who witness the malapropism. Their bemusement, confusion, or amusement amplifies the humor by reflecting the absurdity of the mistake.	Intended word: “organized” Malapropism: “orgasmic” Example: “The team’s orgasmic planning skills always impress everyone.”
Humorous Discrepancy	Highlight the contrast between the intended meaning and the malapropism’s actual meaning. The discrepancy forms the heart of the comedic effect, generating unexpected humor.	Intended word: “blossomed” Malapropism: “blossomed” Example: “Her talents blossomed like a flower in the sun.”
Elevated Confusion	Exaggerate the confusion caused by the malapropism, showcasing its ripple effects on communication and understanding. This deepens the comedic impact and adds layers to the humor.	Intended word: “contribute” Malapropism: “constipate” Example: “His efforts to constipate to the project were truly remarkable.”
Linguistic Playfulness	Engage in wordplay to underscore the linguistic mix-up. Manipulate word sounds and meanings creatively to enhance the humor and draw attention to the amusing error.	Intended word: “distinguished” Malapropism: “extinguished” Example: “He was truly extinguished in his field of expertise.”
Subtle Reinforcement	Incorporate callbacks or references to the malapropism throughout the narrative. This maintains consistency and reminds the reader of the humorous linguistic blunder, adding coherence to the story.	Intended word: “punctual” Malapropism: “punctual” Example: “His habit of being exactly 15 minutes late was a testament to his unique sense of punctual timing.”
Resolution or Twist	Decide whether to resolve the misunderstanding caused by the malapropism or let it persist. The resolution can provide closure, while allowing it to continue can create ongoing humor or plot complexity.	Intended word: “shocked” Malapropism: “shucked” Example: “He was completely shucked by the news of her engagement.” Resolution: “He was initially shucked, but later he embraced the idea wholeheartedly.” Ongoing: “His expression remained shucked throughout the party.”

Benefits of Using Malapropism

1. Humor:

• They create humor by using similar-sounding words with different meanings.
• They are effective in comedic writing or speeches, eliciting laughter from the audience.

2. Satire:

• They satirize lack of knowledge, education, or social conventions.
• They expose absurdity by substituting words in a way that highlights the incongruity.

3. Memorability:

• Malapropisms make phrases or sentences more memorable due to their unique and unexpected nature.
• Their amusing quality leaves a lasting impression on the audience.

4. Characterization:

• They help characterize speakers or characters based on their level of education or intelligence.
• The misuse of words adds depth to characters and reinforces their personality traits.
• They add humor, satire, or emphasis to writing or speech.
• They also Enhance audience engagement and makes the message more memorable.

Malapropism in Literary Theory

Malapropism, as a literary device, has been discussed and analyzed in various literary theories. Here are some examples:

Theory	Interpretation
Linguistic Theory	They occur when the word (signifier) does not match the intended meaning (signified), highlighting the linguistic nature of the error.
Structuralism	It is seen as the confusion or combination of words with opposite meanings, exemplifying binary oppositions within language.
Postmodernism	It demonstrates the inherent instability of language, disrupting and subverting traditional meanings and challenging linguistic conventions.
Feminist Theory	It can challenge patriarchal language, creating new meanings that resist traditional gender norms and empowering marginalized voices.
Psychoanalytic Theory	It reveals unconscious desires and repressed thoughts expressed through language, providing insights into the speaker’s psychological state.
Marxist Theory	Malapropism exposes contradictions and power struggles within language and society, highlighting the oppressive structures and ideologies at play.
Reader-Response Theory	It creates gaps and ambiguities in the text, engaging readers in active interpretation and meaning construction, emphasizing their role in reading.
Deconstruction	Malapropism challenges binary oppositions in language, creating hybrid meanings that resist fixed categories and deconstructing linguistic hierarchies.

Suggested Readings

1. Estremera, Michael L. Codeswitching & Malapropism: A Multi-Faceted Context. Lulu Press Inc, 2021.
2. Fay, David, and Anne Cutler. “Malapropisms and the structure of the mental lexicon.” Linguistic Inquiry 8.3 (1977): 505-520.
3. Vitevitch, Michael S. “The neighborhood characteristics of malapropisms.” Language and Speech 40.3 (1997): 211-228.
4. Zvolenszky, Zsófia. “Inferring Content: Metaphor and Malapropism.” Croatian Journal of Philosophy 15.44 (2015): 163-182.
5. Zwicky, Arnold M. “Classical Malapropisms.” Language Sciences 1.2 (1979): 339-348.