Pronunciation: [mˈɪkst mˈɛtəfˌɔː] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "mixed metaphor" is straight forward if you understand its pronunciation. "Mixed" is spelled as commonly expected, while "metaphor" is pronounced using three syllables. To be more specific, the first syllable is "met" and the second syllable is "a", pronounced as "uh", and the final syllable is "phor". IPA phonetic transcription for "mixed metaphor" looks like "mɪkst ˈmɛtəfɔːr".
A mixed metaphor is a figure of speech where two or more metaphoric expressions are combined in an illogical or contradictory manner, resulting in a confusing or nonsensical comparison. This linguistic error occurs when different metaphors, which individually convey distinct meanings, are used simultaneously within the same context, causing inconsistency and undermining the intended message.
Mixed metaphors often arise from the speaker or writer's attempt to create a vivid or novel description, but due to the improper blending of metaphors, the outcome becomes jumbled or ludicrous. For instance, the phrase "He's a rolling stone that gathers no moss in the sea" combines the metaphors "rolling stone," which implies someone who is constantly moving and changing, with "gathers no moss," a metaphor suggesting that no negative consequences stick to a person. The result is a nonsensical image that confuses the listener or reader.
This type of figurative language error can occur unintentionally or deliberately for comedic effect. However, in formal writing or serious discourse, mixed metaphors are generally avoided since they can weaken the coherence and clarity of the intended message. Writers and speakers should strive for consistency, precision, and coherence when employing metaphors, ensuring that the chosen comparisons align logically and amplify the intended meaning, rather than generating confusion or absurdity.
The etymology of the word "mixed" can be traced back to the Middle English word "mixen" or "mischen", which means "to mix or mingle". It ultimately comes from the Old English word "miscian" and the Proto-Germanic word "miskōną".
The word "metaphor" derives from the Latin word "metaphora", which in turn comes from the Greek word "metaphora" meaning "a transfer" or "a carrying over". The Greek term is a combination of "meta-" (meaning "beyond" or "transcending") and "pherein" (meaning "to carry" or "to bear").
Thus, the combination of "mixed" and "metaphor" in the term "mixed metaphor" simply refers to the blending or merging of multiple metaphors in a way that is incongruous, confused, or illogical.
