Obscure Literary Terms: Zeugma

Mark Twain is quoted saying, “I apologize for such a long letter — I didn't have time to write a short one.”

We writers, despite our complaints of staring at a blank page, also suffer through the other extreme of writing way too much. The first draft of my first serious manuscript was "complete" at 150,000 words. Publishers wouldn't look at that. It was my job to whittle it down to the important parts. Why describe a situation in ten words when you can do it well in five?

More specifically, and the reason for creating this blog post: Why not take advantage of the many meanings one word can have?

Enter, ✨zeugma.✨

"God bless you," you say.

No, no. It's a real term.

Zeugma, derived from the Greek word "zeugnynai," meaning "to join," occurs when a single word—usually a verb or an adjective—links multiple nouns or phrases, each of which may have a different meaning or grammatical function. This device can add depth and creativity to writing, allowing for a more nuanced expression of ideas.

Consolidation 🤝 Nuance

Zeugma feels good to think and to say. It adds rhythm to sentences and can create a punchy effect. You add layers of meaning in a tasty little cake with surprising and clever combinations to capture reader's attention. Overall, the use of zeugma should engage readers by making them think about the connections between different ideas.

There are two different flavors of Zeugma:

Grammatical Zeugma: This occurs when a verb or an adjective applies to more than one noun, with each noun having a different meaning. For example:

"She broke his heart and his bank account."

Here, "broke" applies to both "heart" and "bank account," creating a juxtaposition between emotional and financial loss.

Rhetorical Zeugma: This type focuses more on the effect or emotional impact of the words rather than strict grammatical correctness. An example is:

"He lost his coat and his temper."

The loss of a physical object is paired with the loss of composure, illustrating two different emotional states.

Where have you seen this in literature? EVERYWHERE!

Charles Dickens, Oliver Twist

“He seized the glass and the opportunity.”

This example highlights how "seized" connects both a physical object and an abstract concept.

Ernest Hemingway, A Farewell to Arms

“I have measured out my life with coffee spoons.”

Here, "measured" links the literal act of measuring with the metaphorical concept of life.

T.S. Eliot, The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock

“I have known them all already, known them all—have known the evenings, mornings, afternoons.”

The repetition of "known" creates a rhythm while connecting different times of day.

John Milton, Paradise Lost

“This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.”

In this biblical context, "made" links the creation of the day with the act of rejoicing.

Mark Twain, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer

“Tom had a good time, but he had trouble with the law.”

The phrase “had” connects two very different experiences, emphasizing the contrast.

Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings

“One ring to rule them all, one ring to find them, one ring to bring them all, and in the darkness bind them.”

The verb “bind” connects multiple actions that emphasize the ring’s power.

Even in films? YES!

The Godfather (1972)

“I’m gonna make him an offer he can’t refuse.”

In this iconic line, "make" applies to both the offer and the implication of coercion, showcasing the dual meaning.

Ferris Bueller's Day Off (1986)

“Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”

The word “miss” links both the act of missing a moment and the experience of life itself.

Deadpool (2016)

“I’m not a hero. I’m a high-functioning sociopath.”

The phrase “I’m a” connects both identity statements, creating a humorous contrast.

The Shawshank Redemption (1994)

“Get busy living or get busy dying.”

“Get busy” links both the act of living and the inevitability of death, creating a powerful choice.

Pulp Fiction (1994)

“I’m gonna get medieval on your ass.”

“Get” connects the action with a historical reference, creating a striking visual.

How can writers use zeugma in their writing? I have some things for you to consider:

Choose the Governing Word Wisely

Consider the Context:

Think about the overall theme or mood of your piece. A governing word should not only be relevant but also enhance the meaning of the sentence. For example, in a serious narrative, using a verb with strong emotional weight can evoke deeper feelings.

Aim for Versatility:

Select verbs or adjectives that have multiple meanings or can work in different contexts. Words like "held," "carried," or "dropped" can be interpreted both literally and metaphorically.

For instance: “He held his breath and her gaze.”

Here, "held" works in both a physical and emotional sense.

Balance Clarity and Surprise:

While it’s great to be clever, clarity is crucial. Your readers should still understand the sentence’s meaning without getting lost in the complexity. Aim for a combination that feels fresh yet straightforward.

Experiment with Humor

Juxtapose Contrasting Ideas:

One of the best ways to create humor with zeugma is by linking ideas that don’t traditionally go together. This unexpected pairing can elicit a chuckle or a smile.

For instance: “He lost his keys and his mind.”

The absurdity of losing one’s mind alongside a mundane object can be quite funny.

Utilize Wordplay:

Play with the meanings of your governing word. For example, using “ran” can refer to both a physical action and a situation getting out of control:

“She ran the race and her reputation into the ground.”

Consider Tone:

Make sure the humor fits the tone of your piece. If you’re writing a light-hearted story or a comedic piece, don’t hesitate to lean into the humor with your zeugma.

Create Vivid Imagery

Link Physical Actions with Abstract Concepts:

By connecting tangible actions with intangible feelings, you create richer imagery. This can enhance your writing by making it more relatable and impactful.

For example: “The storm raged and her emotions swirled.”

Use Descriptive Language:

Pair your governing word with strong adjectives or adverbs to amplify the imagery. Instead of simply saying “ran,” you might say:

“He sprinted through the rain and his fears.”

Engage the Senses:

Think about how your words can evoke sensory experiences. Using zeugma to describe sensations can pull readers deeper into the narrative.

For instance: “She savored the chocolate and the moment.”

This sentence connects the act of tasting with enjoying a significant experience.

There are such terms as diazeugma, hypozeugma, mesozeugma, prozeugma, and protozeugma, which follow this general rule of thinking, but I'll only assign those terms to those in need of a new hyperfixation.

So, the next time you’re crafting a sentence, consider how zeugma might help you convey your message with flair! Take advantage of the many meanings of a word!

Many meanings herself but always her own governing word,

Katherine Arkady