3 ms·
It seems to be Antiphrasis: 'The use of a word or phrase in a sense contrary to its normal meaning for ironic or humorous effect' [1] A common example I was abl
by stevesearer 11y ago
It seems to be Antiphrasis: 'The use of a word or phrase in a sense contrary to its normal meaning for ironic or humorous effect' [1] A common example I was able to find used cool with reference to hot temperatures, "it was a cool 110 degrees outside".
Perhaps writers extended the use of cool from high temperatures to towards high dollar amounts as well to achieve a similar effect?
Maybe 'A cool $20k' sounds better than 'An inexpensive $20k'? Though 'a mere $20k' would be another option which also sounds nice.
[1] http://www.thefreedictionary.com/antiphrasis http://www.thefreedictionary.com/antiphrasis
[2] http://english.stackexchange.com/questions/81689/what-is-the-correct-term-for-this-juxtaposition-of-words http://english.stackexchange.com/questions/81689/what-is-the...