Sandyisms
Do you know what malapropisms are? A malapropism is a verbal error that occurs when someone uses a word that sounds similar to the intended word, but is incorrect in context. Malapropisms are often unintentionally humorous and can be used in everyday speech or as a literary device. I didn’t realize that there was a word to describe this. One person in our family does this more than any other and it always gives a good laugh when it happens.
Archie Bunker from “All in the Family” was well known for his malapropisms. Here are are some examples:
- “What do I look like, an inferior decorator?” instead of “interior decorator,”
- “In closing, I’d like to say Molotov!” instead of “Mazel tov.”
- “It’s a well-known fact that capital punishment is a detergent to crime!” instead of “deterrent”
In our family – we don’t have an Archie Bunker, but we do have a Sandy that provides the same level of humor. We call these “Sandy-isms”.
Our two favorites are:
- “I really should keep better track of how many steps I take in a day. Where did I put my Zip Strip?” What she meant to ask for was her Fitbit.
- “I want to buy you one of those electronic robot vacuums. You know what I mean… A Zumba.” What she was trying to refer to was a Roomba.
In every case of encountering a Sandyism, we can’t help but laugh and luckily, Mom always laughs with us as she realizes her mistake. These little mixups have provided our family with entertaining stories and I’m sure they will continue for years to come. I know she has said many more over the years, and every time I hear one, I think, I really should write this down, but have I done that yet – of course not!
Click here to check out other Sidetracked opinions
Click here to listen to the Sidetracked Legacies podcast
Want to create your own legacy? Join the Sidetracked Sisters and start now!
Ever thought about working with a Life Coach? Are you creative or a writer who is frustrated with your inability to do the work you so desperately feel called to do? Check out Lisa Hoffman Coaching.
#sidetrackedsisters #sidetrackedchelle #sidetrackedlegacies #legacywriting #legacystories #writeyourownlegacy #LisaHoffmanCoaching #Humor #Laughs #Sandyisms #malapropism
