Here's a breakdown:
* Literal meaning: The word or phrase has a clear, straightforward meaning.
* Opposite meaning: The speaker or writer intentionally uses the word or phrase to convey the opposite of its literal meaning.
* Effect: Antiphrasis creates a sense of irony, sarcasm, or humor, often highlighting a contradiction or absurdity.
Examples:
* "That was a brilliant idea." (Said when the idea was actually terrible)
* "He's a real genius." (Said about someone who is clearly not intelligent)
* "I'm so happy to be stuck in this traffic jam." (Said sarcastically)
Key Points:
* Antiphrasis relies on context to understand the intended meaning.
* It can be used to express criticism or disagreement in a subtle way.
* It can be a powerful tool for creating humor and adding depth to writing and speech.
Let me know if you'd like more examples or a deeper dive into the nuances of antiphrasis!