Element of Eloquence: Tmesis

Tmesis is a literary device where a word or phrase is split into two parts, with another word inserted in between.

Why a writer would use it

A writer might use tmesis to add emphasis, create a dramatic or comedic effect, or to make a phrase more memorable.

Use-case

In dialogue, a character could use tmesis to express strong emotion or to deliver a punchline.

A couple more examples:

1. "This is a fan-bloody-tastic idea!"

Here, "fantastic" is split by "bloody" to intensify the expression.

2. "Abso-freaking-lutely!"

In this case, "absolutely" is divided by "freaking" for added emphasis and a touch of humor.

Effect on AI prompts

When using tmesis in AI prompts, it's important to keep in mind that the model may not always recognize the intended meaning.

Splitting words could potentially confuse the AI, leading to less accurate or relevant results. Use tmesis sparingly and make sure the context is clear to ensure the AI understands the intended effect.