Explanation
A figure of speech in which something is emphasized precisely by announcing that it will not be mentioned. What is omitted linguistically comes to the forefront as a particularly visible trace.
Example
I don’t even want to mention that he was late three times.
Counterexample
Actual silence without any indication of the omitted content is not praeteritio.
Distinction
Distinguishing from irony: actual silence without any reference to the omitted content is not praeteritio.
Effect on thought and perception
What is left unsaid comes to the forefront as a particularly visible trace.
Resonance
Praeteritio makes a directed relationship perceptible: what is left out linguistically comes to the fore as a particularly visible trace.
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Praeteritio“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-134-039. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-134-039The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.