Solecism: meaning, definitions and examples

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solecism

[ˈsɒlɪsɪz(ə)m ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

language error

A solecism is a grammatical mistake, a breach of good manners or etiquette, an impropriety, incongruity or absurdity. It is a deviation from what is considered correct or proper language usage.

Synonyms

blunder, error, faux pas.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
solecism	Use when referring to a grammatical mistake or a breach of good manners, often in speech or writing. His speech was full of solecisms and awkward pauses. Starting a sentence with 'and' is often considered a solecism.
error	Use in reference to any mistake or inaccuracy, often in a technical or formal context. There was an error in the calculations, so we had to start over. The error message popped up on the screen, indicating a system malfunction.
blunder	Use when describing a serious mistake, typically one that shows a lack of care or thought. Forgetting to save the document was a huge blunder. He made a blunder by mixing up the names during the meeting.
faux pas	Use when referring to a social mistake or a breach of etiquette that can be embarrassing. Wearing white to a wedding is considered a serious faux pas. He committed a faux pas by not introducing his colleague at the event.

Examples of usage

He made a solecism by using the wrong pronoun in the sentence.
She committed a solecism by addressing her teacher by his first name.
The use of slang in a formal essay is considered a solecism.
His constant interruptions at the meeting were seen as a solecism.
Making fun of someone's accent is a social solecism.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term comes from the Greek word 'solecismos,' which refers to a speech error from a city called Soli in Cyprus, known for its peculiar language.
It was first used in English in the 16th century, marking the emergence of grammar rules in literature.

Language & Linguistics

Solecisms can occur in any language and include errors like misusing words, incorrect grammar, or improper syntax.
Some famous literary works intentionally include solecisms as a stylistic device to convey character or cultural background.

Pop Culture

The character Yoda from 'Star Wars' is known for his unique speech pattern, which sometimes includes solecisms, making his dialogue memorable.
In modern media, comedians often highlight solecisms to create humor and connect with audiences over shared language blunders.

Psychology

Errors in language can reveal a person’s cognitive load, showing how busy or stressed they are at the moment.
Studies indicate that people's perception of intelligence can be influenced by how they communicate, including the prevalence of solecisms.

Education

Recognizing and correcting solecisms is a key part of language education, helping learners grasp grammatical rules and improve clarity.
Some educators use humorous examples of solecisms to engage students and make grammar lessons more enjoyable.

Translations

Translations of the word "solecism" in other languages:

🇵🇹 solecismo

🇮🇳 वाक्य दोष

🇩🇪 Solecismus

🇮🇩 solecisme

🇺🇦 солоцизм

🇵🇱 solecyzm

🇯🇵 文法間違い

🇫🇷 solécisme

🇪🇸 solecismo

🇹🇷 sözcük yanlışı

🇰🇷 문법 오류

🇸🇦 لحن

🇨🇿 solecismus

🇸🇰 solecizmus

🇨🇳 语法错误

🇸🇮 solecizem

🇮🇸 málvillu

🇰🇿 грамматикалық қате

🇬🇪 სოლეციზმი

🇦🇿 solecism

🇲🇽 solecismo

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,989 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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33986 outsize
33987 ricochet
33988 satirically
33989 solecism
33990 whirred
33991 whetstone
33992 youngish
...