Definition

A way of using a word or phrase to represent something closely related to it, like using 'the crown' to mean 'the monarchy' or 'Hollywood' to refer to the film industry.

Example

In literature, metonymy is often used to create vivid imagery, such as saying 'the White House issued a statement' to mean the U.S. government.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term metonymy?

Yeah, I think it's when you use a word related to something instead of the thing itself.

Exactly! Like saying 'the crown' when referring to royalty, right?

Right! It's such a clever way to express ideas.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Metonymy → It is formed from "meta-" (meaning change) and "onymia" (from "onoma", meaning name). The word describes a figure of speech where one thing is referred to by the name of something closely associated with it, indicating a change in naming.

Memory Tip

Think of 'changing' ('meta-') the 'name' ('onoma') of something to refer to something related — that’s what metonymy means.

Visually Confused Words