SAT vocabulary
Malapropism
The mistaken use of a word in place of a similar-sounding one, often with unintentionally amusing effect.
Example
"Her malapropism, referring to the 'pineapple' of her discontent, drew confused glances."
Etymology
From French 'mal à propos' meaning inappropriate, from 'mal' (badly) and 'à propos' (to the purpose).
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