Routledge Dictionary of Language and Linguistics
malapropism [Fr. mal à propos ‘not to the purpose, inappropriate’]
A misuse of words, e.g. the aggravator in the washing machine for the agitator, or a detestable wrench for an adjustable wrench. (
play on words, faux amis)
References
Fay, D. & A.Cutler, 1977.
Malapropism and the structure of the mental lexicon. LingI 8.505–20.
Zwicky, A.M. 1982. Classical malapropisms and the creation of a mental lexicon. In L.K.Obler et al. (eds), Exceptional language and linguistics. New York.
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