MALAPROPISMS IX

The Word's The Thing

Dr. Louis D. Appel 

Identify the malapropism in each sentence below and supply the correct word. 

1. "Nothing ventured, nothing gained," says the old euphemism.

2. Jim just couldn't tell the truth; he was a confederate liar.

3. A bird in the hand may be worth two in the bush, but I have no interest in apian matters.

4. The minotaur serenaded his love with songs of heroic deeds.

5. There isn't an ounce of truth in what he says; his argument is entirely furious.

6. The placement of a soda can in the Shakespearean play was an unfortunate antagonism.

7. Mrs. Smith is forever complaining about her health - a real hemophiliac.

8. The library is more than a suppository for books. 

9. I you can't attend commencement, you can receive your diploma in dementia.

10. Having a love, but not great talent, for the piano, he lived precariously through the accomplishments of his grandchildren.

Answers:

 

1. euphemism - aphorism

2. confederate - inveterate

3. apian - avian

4. minotaur - troubadour 

5. furious - spurious

6. antagonism - anachronism 

7. hemophiliac - hypochondriac

8. suppository - depository

9. dementia - absentia

10. precariously - vicariously