Mixed Metaphors

Discussion in 'Evolution of Language' started by Tom Locke, Apr 30, 2015.

  1. Tom Locke

    Tom Locke Veteran Member
    Registered

    Joined:
    Apr 17, 2015
    Messages:
    1,222
    Likes Received:
    2,297
    I love a good mixed metaphor. A personal favourite from a few years ago (a BBC sports commentator):

    "He has other irons in the fire, but he's keeping them close to his chest."

    Ouch.

    Sport is a ripe area for this particular genre. I recall one sportsman who, apparently, came back "literally from the dead," a very good example of why one should never use the word "literally".
     
    #1
  2. Magalina Lilis

    Magalina Lilis Veteran Member
    Registered

    Joined:
    Apr 10, 2015
    Messages:
    114
    Likes Received:
    82
    I did a quick search and noticed a few mixed metaphors that I use.

    We could stand here and talk until the cows turn blue.
    Take a flying hike.


    I also found some quotes using mixed metaphors. Gave me a good chuckle.

    "I don’t think we should wait until the other shoe drops. History has already shown what is likely to happen. The ball has been down this court before and I can see already the light at the end of the tunnel."
    (Detroit News, quoted in The New Yorker, November 26, 2012)

    And continuing on with the sports theme,

    "'Obviously, it's been a very difficult two days for us,' Nelson said. 'We kind of saw the writing on the wall Friday night. It's just apples versus oranges, and it's not a level playing field by any means.'"

    ("Seabury’s Football Team Done for the Season." Lawrence Journal-World, Sep. 22, 2009)
     
    #2

Share This Page