Metonymy
Nicole Messer
Metonymy
Definition
a figure of speech that consists of the use of the name of one object or concept for that of another to which it is related, or of which it is a part, as “scepter” for “sovereignty,” or “the bottle” for “strong drink,” or “count heads (or noses)” for “count people.”.
Examples
- England decides to keep check on immigration. (England refers to the government.)
- The suits were at meeting. (The suits stand for business people.)
- The pen is mightier than the sword. (Pen refers to written words and sword to military force.)
- The Oval Office was busy in work. (“The Oval Office” is a metonymy as it stands for people at work in the office.)
- Let me give you a hand. (Hand means help.)
Beyoncé - Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)
In the song
- "If you like it then you should've put a ring on it" talking about marriage and commitment
- "...a man on my hips" not actually attached to her hips
We all know the song
ACTIVITY
As a group, come up with a conversation involving EVERYONE and make sure that each person uses metonymy at least once.