Online Encyclopedia
Paraprosdokian
A paraprosdokian is a figure of speech that uses an unexpected ending to a series or phrase. It can be used for joking or for dramatic effect.
Examples:
- "He was at his best when the going was good." -- Alistair Cooke on the Duke of Windsor
- It was a beautiful day in March when I was hit by a bus
A humorous triple is a kind of paraprosdokian.
Last updated: 02-26-2005 20:49:46