14. Metonymy

Metonymy is based on a different type of relation between the dictionary and contextual meanings, a relation based not on affinity, but on some kind of association connecting the two concepts which these meanings represent on a proximity

It is based on definite relations between the object implied and the object named.

The interaction between the logical and the contextual meanings of the words is based on close relations objectively existing between the part and the body itself.

In metonymy relations between the object named and the object implied are various and numerous. Here are the most frequent types of relations:1) The relations that exist between an instrument and the action it performs (or between an organ of the body and its function).;2) The relations that exist between an article of clothing and the person wearing it.;3) The relations that exist between the symbol and the phenomenon it symbolized.

Apart from this group of metonymies some other trite types of metonymies should be mentioned – that is metonymies based on very close, common relations between objects. They are: a) The relations between the creator and his creation.; b) The relations between the material and the thing made of it.; c) The relations between the singular and the plural. This type of metonymy is called synecdoche.

The stylistic effect of trite metonymies is in most cases weak.

Metonymy as a genuine stylistic device is used to achieve concreteness of description. By giving a specific detail connected with the phenomenon, the author evokes a concrete and life-like image and reveals certain feelings of his own.

By mentioning only one seemingly insignificant feature or detail connected with the phenomenon the author draws the reader’s attention to it and makes him see the character he describes as he himself sees it.

e.g. Then a pause, as the bonnet and dress neared the top of the Square.

The proximity may be revealed:

1) between the symbol and the thing it denotes; 2) in the relations between the instrument and the action performed with this instrument; e.g. His pen is rather sharp.;3) in the relation between the container and the thing it contains; e.g. He drank one more cup.;4) the concrete is put for the abstract; e. g. It was a representative gathering (science, politics).;5) a part is put for the whole; e.g. the crown - king, a hand - worker.

Metonymy represents the events of reality in its subjective attitude. Metonymy in many cases is trite. e.g.:" to earn one's bread", "to keep one's mouth shut".

Functions: 1) to create a more vivid image of the phenomena or person described; 2) to create a certain atmosphere; 3) to contribute to words more colourful and emot. presit. Of the scene; 4) to unable the reader to better understanding somebody’s inner state of mind.

20. Publicistic style

Publicistic style has spoken varieties, in particular, the oratorical substyle. The new spoken varieties are the radio commentary, the essay and articles.

The general aim of publicistic style is to exert a constant and deep influence on public opinion, to convince the reader or the listener that the interpretation given by the writer or the speaker is the only correct one and to cause him to accept the point of view expressed in the speech, essays or article. Due to its characteristic combination of logical argumentation and emotional appeal, publicistic style has features in common with the style of scientific prose, on the one hand, and that of emotive prose, on the other. Its emotional appeal is generally achieved by the use of words with emotive meaning; but the stylistic devices are not fresh or genuine.

Publicistic style is also characterized by brevity of expression.