How to write a Malapropism
In order to use malapropism,
- Examine a sentence for words that could be replaced with similar-sounding words.
- Replace those words for a comedic effect.
For an example, imagine a friend who can nearly read your mind:
Normal Sentence:
It’s like we have ESP!
ESP, meaning extrasensory perception, could easily be confused or replaced with a similar abbreviation. Such as:
Sentence with Malapropism:
It’s like we have ESPN!
The sports channel makes for a comedic replacement of the actual, intended abbreviation.
For a second example, consider someone who claims to have no delusions:
Normal Sentence:
I have absolutely no delusions about reality.
Sentence with Malapropism:
I have absolutely no allusions about reality.
Delusions and allusions sound similar enough to be confused, though an allusion, or reference, is vastly different from a delusion, or misconception. This malapropism is particularly humorous because the person claiming to have no delusions is, in fact, confused.
When to Use Malapropism
Because malapropisms can be unintentional or intentional, one may be advised to both avoid and use them. On one hand, it is important to avoid using long and complicated words you may or may not know the definition of, as malapropisms are all-too-easy to commit on accident. On the other hand, malapropisms can be intentionally comedic when used in casual conversation or funny compositions. Malapropisms are frequent offenders in comedic songs, stories, movies, advertisements, and television shows.