Zeugma
Pattern
V(A, B) — one word yoked to serve two objects differently
Definition
Use of a single word (usually a verb) to govern or modify two or more words in different ways, often with one use being figurative.
Examples
Example 1
She lowered her standards and her neckline.
Mae West (attributed)
The verb "lowered" governs both an abstract concept and a physical object, creating comic surprise
Example 2
He took his hat and his leave.
The verb "took" yokes together a concrete object and an idiomatic expression
Example 3
You held your breath and the door for me.
Alanis Morissette, "Head over Feet"
The verb "held" applies to both a bodily action and a courteous gesture
AI Detection Note
AI rarely produces effective zeugma because it requires a single word to operate in two semantic registers simultaneously — a form of controlled ambiguity that LLMs tend to avoid.
See how your writing uses this figure
Analyze Your Text