metonymy

• Figure de style ou processus sémantique dans lequel le nom d'un attribut, d'une partie ou d'un élément associé est utilisé pour désigner l'ensemble ou la chose elle-même, par exemple « compter les têtes » au lieu de « compter les personnes ».

A figure of speech in which the name of an attribute or feature is substituted for the name of the thing itself, as in 'they counted heads' to mean people.

1. C1formal

   A figure of speech in which a thing or concept is referred to by the name of something closely associated with it, such as using 'the crown' to refer to the monarchy.

   Métonymie

   • In the phrase 'the pen is mightier than the sword,' 'pen' is a metonymy for writing and 'sword' for military force.
   • 'The White House issued a statement' uses metonymy, where the building stands for the president and their administration.
   • 'Hollywood is known for its movies' is a metonymy, as the place name represents the American film industry.