What is Trope? - 2

A trope is the semantic transposition from a sign in praesentia to a sign in absentia, 1) based on the perception of a connection between one or more semantic features of the signified; 2) marked by the semantic incompatibility of the micro- and macro-contexts; 3) conditioned by a referential connection by similarity, or inclusiveness, or opposition.

Yuri Lotman [Universe of Mind]

 

This quotation sounds intimidating, but it’s really describing how figurative language, i.e. tropes works. Let’s try and understand it.

 

What is a “trope”?

A trope is when we use a word or expression in a shifted or indirect way—like in metaphors, similes, irony, or symbolism.

Example:

“Time is a thief.”
Time isn’t literally a thief, but we treat it like one to express meaning.

 

Now, the quotation in simple parts:

1) “Semantic transposition from a sign in praesentia to a sign in absentia”

- You replace what is actually there (present) with something that is not literally there (absent).

- In simple terms: you say one thing, but you mean or suggest another.

Example:
Calling someone “a lion”

- Present word: lion

- Absent meaning: a brave person

 

2) “Based on the perception of a connection between semantic features”

The substitution works because the two things share some similarity or connection.

Example:

- Lion ↔ bravery

- Thief ↔ stealing (time “steals” moments)

So, we connect ideas based on shared qualities.

 

3) “Marked by the semantic incompatibility of micro- and macro-contexts”

- The word doesn’t literally fit the situation (it feels slightly “wrong” at first).

- But in the larger context, we understand the intended meaning.

 

Example:

“He is a snake.”
Literally false (micro-level mismatch), but metaphorically meaningful (macro-level understanding: deceitful person).

 

4) “Conditioned by a referential connection by similarity, inclusiveness, or opposition”

The connection between the two ideas can be of three types:

- Similarity (Metaphor/Simile): “Her smile is sunshine.” (both are warm/pleasant)

- Inclusiveness (Metonymy/Synecdoche): “The White House announced…” (White House = U.S. government)

- Opposition (Irony): Saying “Great job!” when something goes wrong

 

Simple Explanation

A trope is when we:

- Replace a literal word with a figurative one

- Because they share some connection

- Even if it seems mismatched at first

- And that connection can be based on similarity, closeness, or contrast