Tmesis: The Art of Splitting Words

What is Tmesis?

Tmesis, derived from the Greek word for ‘cutting’, is a rhetorical device characterized by the insertion of a word or phrase between the parts of a compound word or between an auxiliary verb and its main verb. This deliberate separation serves to emphasize the inserted element or the entire phrase.

Key Concepts

The core idea behind tmesis is disruption for emphasis. By breaking apart a familiar word or structure, the speaker or writer draws attention to the interruption. This can:

• Highlight a specific word or idea.
• Create a humorous or dramatic effect.
• Add a unique rhythm or cadence to speech.

Deep Dive into Usage

Tmesis is not a common feature in everyday language but appears more frequently in poetry, literature, and sometimes in informal, emphatic speech. It’s often seen with common phrases or verbs.

Examples include:

• “Whatsoever things are true…” (Bible, splitting “whatsoever”)
• “Go I must.” (Splitting “I must go”)
• “To me, this is absolutely the best.” (Splitting “this is absolutely the best”)

Applications and Impact

Tmesis is primarily employed for stylistic and rhetorical effect. It can:

• Enhance the emotional impact of a statement.
• Make a phrase more memorable and striking.
• Convey a sense of urgency or importance.

Think of it as a verbal pause that amplifies the meaning.

Challenges and Misconceptions

One common misconception is that any unusual word order is tmesis. However, tmesis specifically involves splitting a single unit (like a compound word or verb phrase) with another word. Correct identification is key.

It can sometimes be challenging to distinguish from other figures of speech that involve word rearrangement.

FAQs about Tmesis

Is tmesis grammatically incorrect?

While it deviates from standard grammatical structure, tmesis is a recognized rhetorical device, not an error, when used intentionally for effect.

Where is tmesis most commonly found?

It’s most often found in poetic and literary works, and less frequently in everyday conversation.