Definition

Relating to the misuse of a word or phrase, often in a way that creates a new meaning or expression.

Example

The poet's catachrestic use of language added a unique twist to his work.

Conversation

I was reading that poem you recommended, and I found some lines quite catachrestic.

Really? I didn’t notice that when I first read it.

Yeah, it’s interesting how some phrases seem to stretch the meaning.

Exactly! It adds a unique flavor to the writing.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Catachrestic → It is formed from "cata-" (from Greek "kata", meaning down or against) and "chrestikos" (from Greek "chrestos", meaning useful or serviceable). The term refers to a use of a word in a way that is not its proper or literal meaning, often to fill a gap in language, hence the idea of using something 'against' its usual meaning.

Memory Tip

Think of using a word 'against' its usual meaning ('cata-') to fill a gap in language, which is what catachrestic refers to.

Visually Confused Words