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Meaning & use

aphorisms

noun·Academic

Last updated

UK/ˈæfərɪzəmz/
US/ˈæfərɪzəmz/

“aphorisms” is a form of “aphorism”. See that entry for the full set of meanings.

Meaning

  1. nouncountable

    Short, memorable sayings that express a general truth or piece of wisdom.

    Grammar: Plural countable: aphorisms are quoted for guidance.

    Patterns

    • aphorisms about something

    The book is full of aphorisms about patience and hard work.

    Ben Franklin's aphorisms were printed in his almanac.

    She collects aphorisms in a notebook to inspire her writing.

Common combinations

collection of aphorisms
He published a collection of aphorisms.
famous aphorisms
Famous aphorisms like these are often quoted.
witty aphorisms
The speaker sprinkled witty aphorisms through his talk.
ancient aphorisms
Ancient aphorisms still offer advice today.
coin aphorisms
The author loves to coin aphorisms.

Synonyms and how they differ

proverbs
Proverbs are traditional sayings by unknown authors, while aphorisms often come from a known writer.
maxims
Maxims stress rules for conduct, while aphorisms may be witty observations.
epigrams
Epigrams are especially clever or sharp, often in verse.
adages
Adages are old, widely accepted sayings.

Word family

aphorism noun
a single short saying
aphoristic adjective
in the form of an aphorism
aphorist noun
a person who writes aphorisms

Commonly confused: aphorisms or aphrodisiacs?

aphorisms vs aphrodisiacs

Aphrodisiacs are things that increase desire and are unrelated; aphorisms are sayings.

Practice

The writer was famous for short, witty ___ that people still quote today.

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