What Is An Aphorism In English?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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An aphorism is a brief saying or phrase that expresses an opinion or makes a statement of wisdom without the flowery language of a proverb. … For example, “

A bad penny always turns up

” is an aphorism for the fact that bad people or things are bound to turn up in life. We just have to deal with them when they do.

What is aphorism in English literature?

Aphorism is

a short statement expressing general truths or opinions

. Aphorisms are often applied to matters of philosophical, moral, and literary principles, usually using metaphors and other creative imagery.

What is an example of a aphorism?

An aphorism is a brief saying or phrase that expresses an opinion or makes a statement of wisdom without the flowery language of a proverb. … For example, “

A bad penny always turns up

” is an aphorism for the fact that bad people or things are bound to turn up in life. We just have to deal with them when they do.

How do you identify an aphorism?

Aphorism Definition

To qualify as an aphorism, it is

necessary for a statement to contain a truth revealed in a terse manner

. Aphoristic statements are quoted in writings, as well as in our daily speech. The fact that they contain a truth gives them a universal acceptance.

How do you use aphorism in a sentence?

  1. The pawpaw didn’t hold out both hands and I took the grapefruit, which had more pith on it than an Oscar Wilde aphorism. …
  2. He had no final answer to these questions, or rather, no neat aphorism that he cared to formulate as a philosophical truth.

What’s a saying called?

A saying (also called

a proverb

, maxim, or adage) is a piece of wisdom from one’s culture.

What do all aphorisms have in common?

Define aphorism: Aphorisms are general, often witty, statements that

present a moral or philosophical idea

. These are present in common phrases as well as in well-known literature.

How do you write an aphorism?

Take the underlying concept of a common aphorism and try to come up with a new metaphor for it.

Try to capture the basic wisdom behind the aphorism

and clothe it in new imagery. Aphorisms are extremely challenging to write so don’t worry if your aphorisms seem uninteresting at first!

What is a aphorism simple definition?

1 :

a concise statement of a principle

. 2 : a terse formulation of a truth or sentiment : adage the high-minded aphorism, “Let us value the quality of life, not the quantity”

What is the purpose of aphorism in writing?

Regardless of where they occur in a text, writers use aphorisms

to cleverly and concisely express observations or philosophical ideas

. Because aphorisms are short phrases that evoke big ideas, writers often use them as shorthand for a work’s central themes.

What are wise words?

  • Be confident in yourself. “Nobody can make you feel inferior without your permission.” — …
  • Always be looking forward. “You can never plan the future by the past.” — …
  • Live a life of purpose. …
  • Be brave. …
  • Use your time wisely. …
  • Value yourself for who you are. …
  • Hone your skills. …
  • Keep your head up.

What is the difference between an aphorism and an idiom?

Aphorisms are straightforward maxims. Cliches are often overused events that become predictable. Idioms are

phrases with a fixed figurative meaning as opposed to the literal meaning

.

What is the effect of aphorism?

Through aphorisms,

writers and speakers can teach universal truths to audiences

, allowing them to relate to the world around them and the words of the writer. Aphorisms are often used in motivational speeches for increased understanding and relatability of the audience.

What do you call a saying you live by?

A motto,

aphorism

, axiom, or other piece of advice that will serve one well throughout one’s life if upheld or adhered to. Sometimes used humorously or sarcastically.

What do you call words of wisdom?

Noun. A phrase or saying that references common fact or knowledge. proverb. saying.

adage

.

What is the opposite of aphorism?

aphorism. Antonyms:

lecture, exhortation

, dissertation, disquisition. Synonyms: adage, apothegm, maxim, saying, precept, rule, proverb.

Amira Khan
Author
Amira Khan
Amira Khan is a philosopher and scholar of religion with a Ph.D. in philosophy and theology. Amira's expertise includes the history of philosophy and religion, ethics, and the philosophy of science. She is passionate about helping readers navigate complex philosophical and religious concepts in a clear and accessible way.