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What's the word for a mistake in speech where the first sounds of two words are swapped?
The word you're looking for
A spoonerism is a speech mistake where the first sounds of two words are swapped. For example, saying “queer old dean” instead of “dear old queen.”
Other words that fit
Use this for the broader linguistic term for swapped sounds or letters, not just the first sounds of two words.
Use this in a general sense when sounds, letters, or words are moved out of order.
Use this in everyday speech when you want a common phrase, not the technical term.
Why this word
The best word for this kind of speech error is usually spoonerism. It is named after William Spooner, who was famous for making this kind of mistake. People use it when the first sounds of two words are accidentally swapped. In linguistics, metathesis is the broader term, but spoonerism is the most exact match for your query.
In context
- His joke was a classic spoonerism.
- She made a spoonerism during her speech.
- “You have hissed all my mystery lectures” is a spoonerism.
Other concepts to find a word for
Frequently asked questions
- Is a spoonerism only for swapped first sounds?
- Yes, that is the usual meaning. It often involves the first sounds of two words being exchanged.
- Is spoonerism the same as malapropism?
- No. A malapropism uses the wrong word that sounds similar, while a spoonerism swaps sounds.
- Is metathesis a better word?
- Metathesis is broader and more technical. Spoonerism is the best everyday word for this exact mistake.