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catachresis

 (n): strained or paradoxical use of words either in error (as `blatant' to mean `flagrant') or deliberately (as in a mixed metaphor: `blind mouths')
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about 1 year ago slumry said:

From American Heritage Dictionary:

1. The misapplication of a word or phrase, as the use of blatant to mean "flagrant."

2. The use of a strained figure of speech, such as a mixed metaphor.

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pedalinfaith (615 words)
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