HENDIADYS Meaning and
Definition
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Hendiadys is a rhetorical and linguistic figure of speech that involves the expression of a single idea through the use of two coordinating terms joined by the conjunction "and." Derived from the Greek words "hen" meaning "one" and "dia" meaning "through," hendiadys emphasizes the idea or concept by employing two separate words or phrases instead of a single composite expression.
In hendiadys, the two words or phrases used are structurally parallel and are connected by "and" to convey a single concept. Unlike other figures of speech that may create contrast, irony, or exaggeration, hendiadys functions primarily to enhance the intend meaning and provide emphasis. This figure of speech is often utilized in various forms of literature, poetry, rhetoric, and even everyday conversation.
Hendiadys allows for a more nuanced and vivid description of a subject, as it elaborates on the intended meaning by highlighting individual aspects of a single idea. By breaking down the concept into two separate components, hendiadys allows the reader or listener to grasp a more comprehensive understanding of the message being conveyed.
For instance, the phrase "bright and shining" in hendiadys implies that the subject being described is not just bright or just shining, but rather it emphasizes a combined intensity of both qualities. In this way, hendiadys serves as a linguistic device aimed to create impact and evoke a more vibrant and powerful image or idea in the minds of the audience.
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A figure of speech in which two nouns are used instead of a noun and an adjective; the same idea presented by two phrases.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for HENDIADYS
- gendiadys
- bendiadys
- nendiadys
- jendiadys
- uendiadys
- yendiadys
- hwndiadys
- hsndiadys
- hdndiadys
- hrndiadys
- h4ndiadys
- h3ndiadys
- hebdiadys
- hemdiadys
- hejdiadys
- hehdiadys
- hensiadys
- henxiadys
- henciadys
Etymology of HENDIADYS
The word "hendiadys" is derived from two Ancient Greek words: "hen", meaning "one", and "dia", meaning "through", "by", or "twice". These two words combine to form "hendiadys", which translates to "one through two" or "one by means of two". The term was first introduced by the Roman rhetorician Quintilian and was later adopted into English. It is used to describe a figure of speech where two words connected by "and" are used to express a single complex idea.
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