Meaning of "kenning" in English

In English, "kenning" is a figurative expression used in poetry, often a compound phrase that describes an object or action in a creative way. Originating in Old Norse and Anglo-Saxon poetry, kennings replace a single noun with a metaphorical combination of two or more words. This device enhances imagery and evokes a richer, more imaginative reading experience. Examples include "whale-road" for ocean or "sky-candle" for sun, illustrating the technique's vivid and evocative nature.

Meaning of "kenning" in French

In French, "kenning" refers to a literary device similar to its English counterpart, where two words are combined to form a descriptive phrase often used in poetry. This term comes from ancient Nordic and Anglo-Saxon sources and aims to enrich the imagery and emotional impact of language in a poetic context. French poets employ kennings to create imaginative expressions that provide deeper meaning and resonance to the text, adding layers of complexity and visual appeal to the language.

Pronunciation of "kenning" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /ˈkɛnɪŋ/

Pronunciation Variations: In some English dialects, the vowel sounds may vary slightly, with a more elongated pronunciation in regional accents such as Scottish or Irish English, affecting how the "e" is articulated.

Pronunciation of "kenning" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /kɛnɪŋ/

Pronunciation Variations: Variations in French pronunciation are minimal, though some speakers may soften the final "g" sound or emphasize the nasal "en" more strongly depending on their regional accent.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

  1. The poet's use of kenning added depth to the narrative. (L'utilisation du kenning par le poète ajoutait de la profondeur au récit.)
  2. In Old English poetry, kennings like "battle-sweat" are common. (Dans la poésie anglo-saxonne, les kennings comme "sueur de bataille" sont courants.)
  3. Kennings create vivid imagery in the reader's mind. (Les kennings créent des images vives dans l'esprit du lecteur.)
  4. She was fascinated by the kenning "bone-house" for the body. (Elle était fascinée par le kenning "maison des os" pour le corps.)
  5. The lecture covered the history of kenning in medieval literature. (La conférence a abordé l'histoire du kenning dans la littérature médiévale.)
  6. Students were tasked with writing a poem using at least five kennings. (Les étudiants devaient écrire un poème en utilisant au moins cinq kennings.)
  7. The saga was rich with kennings that captivated the audience. (La saga était riche en kennings qui captivaient le public.)
  8. Translating ancient kennings can be a challenging endeavor. (Traduire les kennings anciens peut être une entreprise difficile.)
  9. The kenning "swan-road" evokes a powerful image of the sea. (Le kenning "route des cygnes" évoque une image puissante de la mer.)
  10. Learning about kennings opened a new perspective on language for her. (Apprendre sur les kennings lui a ouvert une nouvelle perspective sur le langage.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "kenning" in English

Synonyms: metaphor, epithet, periphrasis, circumlocution, allegory.

Antonyms: literalness, straightforwardness, directness, clarity, plainness.

Similar Words: figure of speech, symbolism, imagery, wordplay, poetic device.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "kenning" in French

Synonyms: métaphore, épithète, périphrase, circonlocution, allégorie.

Antonyms: littéralité, simplicité, franchise, clarté, sobriété.

Similar Words: figure de style, symbolisme, imagerie, jeu de mots, dispositif poétique.

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