What stylistic role does 'zeugma' play in elevated literary prose?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Applying a single word to two others in different senses
- Step 1: Zeugma (or syllepsis) links one governing verb or adjective to two disparate nouns (e.g., 'he held his tongue and her hand'). Step 2. It juxtaposes concrete and abstract meanings, producing striking economy, surprise, and ironic depth. Answer: Applying a single word to two others in different senses. Why not the others: Inversion is chiasmus; breaking off speech is aposiopesis.
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