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The Vocabulary Builder Workbook of Adjectives

Add 2,000 must-know adjectives to your vocabulary.

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 99 categorized lessons, 232 practical activities.

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 Ideal preparation for: TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, CPE, BEC, PTE, FCE

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wordplay

IPA:

How to pronounce wordplay (audio)

Dictionary definition of wordplay

The playful and clever manipulation of words and language for humorous, witty, or creative effects.
"The clever wordplay in the marketing campaign made the product stand out from its competitors."

Detailed meaning of wordplay

It involves using words in unconventional ways, such as puns, double entendres, homophones, anagrams, or clever word associations. Wordplay often relies on the multiple meanings, sounds, or spellings of words to create clever wordplay. It is a form of linguistic amusement that tickles the intellect and elicits laughter or appreciation for its cleverness. Wordplay can be found in various forms of literature, comedy, advertising, poetry, and everyday conversations. It showcases the richness and versatility of language, demonstrating how words can be twisted and manipulated to create new meanings, evoke emotions, or simply entertain. Wordplay is a delightful form of linguistic gymnastics that invites us to revel in the playful possibilities of words.

Example sentences containing wordplay

1. The comedian's stand-up routine was filled with clever wordplay that had the audience in stitches.
2. The crossword puzzle was a challenging exercise in wordplay and mental agility.
3. The author's writing style was characterized by witty wordplay and clever turns of phrase.
4. In their rap lyrics, they skillfully incorporated wordplay to add depth and complexity to their verses.
5. The advertisement used a clever play on words to grab the viewer's attention and make them smile.
6. The puns and wordplay in the cartoon strip brought a lightheartedness to the daily newspaper.

History and etymology of wordplay

The noun 'wordplay' is a compound word that consists of two distinct elements: 'word' and 'play.' The word 'word' has its origins in Old English 'word,' referring to a unit of language with meaning, and 'play' also comes from Old English 'plega,' indicating amusement or entertainment. When combined, 'wordplay' signifies the playful and clever manipulation of words and language for humorous, witty, or creative effects. This term captures the essence of linguistic creativity and the art of using words in a playful manner, highlighting the rich and imaginative possibilities of language, where words themselves become a source of entertainment and amusement.

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Further usage examples of wordplay

1. The clever wordplay in the poem added layers of meaning and made it memorable.
2. The improvisational comedy troupe was known for their quick wit and wordplay on stage.
3. The wordplay in the riddle left everyone scratching their heads in search of the clever answer.
4. The writer's love for wordplay was evident in the clever titles of their books and articles.
5. The wordplay between the two characters in the play added a comedic element to the dialogue.
6. His wordplay in that poem was both clever and thought-provoking.
7. She's known for her wordplay, always finding humor in language.
8. The comedian's wordplay had the audience in stitches.
9. The author's wordplay added depth to the character's dialogue.
10. Wordplay is an art form that requires a nimble mind.
11. Their wordplay in the rap battle was legendary.
12. Wordplay can make even the dullest topic entertaining.
13. He used wordplay to turn a simple conversation into a game.
14. The crossword puzzle was a masterpiece of wordplay.
15. Her wordplay was a testament to her linguistic prowess.
16. Wordplay is a key element in witty advertising.
17. The comedian's wordplay left everyone laughing uncontrollably.
18. The poet's wordplay painted vivid images in our minds.
19. Clever wordplay can make a catchy slogan.
20. Wordplay is a versatile tool for communication.
21. The novelist's wordplay added layers of meaning to the story.
22. His wordplay was like a symphony of wit and humor.
23. Wordplay can turn a mundane sentence into a work of art.
24. The pun is the simplest form of wordplay.
25. Wordplay is the secret ingredient in his captivating speeches.

Discourse and Conveyance, Inventive and Inspired, Language and Expression 2

badinage,banter,double-entendre,humor,quip,repartee,witticism

bon-mot,jest,paronomasia,pun,wit

pun, literalness, seriousness, straightforwardness

eb68db_c22c3aa6d6824bd096e84f019db0ee2f.mp3

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