Transferred Epithet
Transferred Epithet meaning
Transferred Epithet is a figure of speech where an epithet is transferred from its correct or proper word to another that is closely associated with it in the sentence.
It is also called “HYPALLAGE”.
Epithet
Usually, we use adjectives to describe nouns.
Epithet is nothing but adjective or phrase that shows/describes the quality of a person or a thing. It is the characterization of some person or thing.
Transferred Epithet example.
Imagine you were at a party and you were having a nice time. But the most enjoyable time was when you all were given gifts.
Here, it is you who had a great time at the party. But in the sentence below, I am mentioning the adjective “fun-filled” not for you but for the moment or time you were enjoying it.
The most fun-filled moment was the distribution of gifts at the party.
I am TRANSFERRING it from you to the time or moment, i.e., I am transferring the adjective from one person or thing to another.
This is called transferred epithet.
Difference between Transferred Epithet and Personification.
Transferred epithet: Transfer of a modifier from one noun to another.
Example: She spent a sleepless night though she was very tired.
Personification: Giving the quality of a human being to an inanimate object. Its like assigning emotions or actions to objects.
Example: The sunflowers nodded in the sunshine.
How to form an Epithet?
Example 1:
Identify the subject.
Let’s assume it’s a girl.
In order to impress her we need to just add and adjective.
So the next time you see her, instead of just saying, “Hi there”.
Try saying, “Hi gorgeous / Hi beautiful”!
Example 2:
Imagine you have an intelligent friend. You can say,
“Here comes Sam, the All-knower!”
Transferred Epithet examples
1. I gave him a knowing nod.
2. It was the most intelligent field trip.
3. It was the most boring picnic.
4. It was an easy test.
5. I had a dull pain.
6. I had a sharp pain.
7. She asked me a silly question.
8. She had a tiring day.
9. I had a busy afternoon.
10. For me it’s the best day.
11. We had a miraculous escape.
12. Yesterday was my lucky day.
13. We had a peaceful day.
14. Paul had a terrifying night.
15. Our teacher gives us intelligent answers.
16. Mary gave a confused look.
17. That was a clever prank.
18. They have a meaningful relationship.
19. Hi there, sleepy head.
20. They had a happy relationship.
21. I have a busy life.
22. That was a tiring path.
23. It was a tough move.
24. We had an enjoyable day.
25. It was a fun evening.
26. He cooked a tasteless dinner.
27. She follows a sugarless diet.
28. That was a jealous decision.
28. We had a happy lunch.
29. She has a successful carrier.
30. Sam has a problematic life.
31. They have a tough choice.
32. They made a faulty deal.
33. I had a restless day.
Have fun transferring!
