Meiosis | Definition, Meaning, Synonyms, Characteristics, Functions & Examples

Meiosis is a figure of speech that has many uses both in everyday conversation and in writing. The word meiosis has its roots in the Greek word meioo, which implies “to diminish” or “to make smaller.” Writers use meiosis in order to add a dramatic effect to the text and to capture the attention of the reader. In this article, you will be introduced to all the essential information about meiosis, including its definition, characteristics, functions, related terms, etc.

Definition of Meiosis

Meiosis is a witty understatement that belittles or dismisses something or somebody. It makes use of terms that give an impression that something is less significant than it is or should be. Meiosis is often employed in the sense of a synonym for litotes. In literature, meiosis refers to the use of an understatement to highlight a point or describe a situation.

Characteristics of Meiosis

The following are the chief features of meiosis:

  • It is an understatement that is employed intentionally.
  • Meiosis is used to belittle a person or an event.
  • Meiosis can be considered the opposite of hyperbole or exaggeration.
  • Meiosis makes use of litotes as synonyms to give an ironic effect.

Functions of Meiosis

As a figure of speech, meiosis has the following functions:

  • Meiosis helps in illustrating tone and mannerisms.
  • It reduces the significance of something or someone.
  • Heightens the dramatic effect.

Check out English Grammar Notes that everyone who wants to improve their English should know as a part of expanding their knowledge base.

Difference Between Understatement, Meiosis, and Litotes

Understatement refers to the process of minimizing something. It can be used to evoke humor, comfort people, and for many other purposes. Meiosis and litotes are forms of understatement and are used for specific purposes.

  • Litotes: Litotes is the process of negating something so as to prove the opposite.
  • Meiosis is a figure of speech that is a witty understatement that belittles or dismisses something or somebody.

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FAQs on Meiosis

Q1. What is meiosis?
Ans: Meiosis is a witty understatement that belittles or dismisses something or somebody. It makes use of terms that give an impression that something is less significant than it is or should be.

Q2. What are the features of meiosis?
Ans: As a figure of speech, meiosis can be considered an understatement. It is used to belittle something or someone. Meiosis can also be considered the opposite of hyperbole.

Q3. Differentiate between understatement and meiosis.
Ans: Understatement is a literary device that belittles something. Meiosis can be considered a type of understatement.

Conclusion

Meiosis is a figure of speech, used in both spoken and written language. It refers to the action of belittling an item, person, event, or place. Meiosis is an understatement commonly used in literature to downplay or belittle something and take away from its importance. As a figure of speech, meiosis is also used to highlight a point or to enhance the dramatic effect of a situation.

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