Double meaning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Double meaning" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a word, phrase, or expression that has two interpretations or meanings, often one of which is humorous or ironic. Example: "The phrase 'break a leg' has a double meaning, wishing someone good luck while also implying a physical injury."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

But with a single, graceful act, Kaepernick invested it with a double meaning.

Huffington Post

The word senseable has a double meaning; it means "able to sense" and "sensible".

Huffington Post

This has a double meaning, first pursing your lips usually means you are withholding information.

Huffington Post

It can also mean "flower," which gives this phrase a flattering double meaning.

WikiHow

Free (in English) carries a double meaning.

The New York Times

They understood the program's double meaning.

The New Yorker

What a wonderful double meaning.

The Guardian

"Middlemarch" has a double meaning.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

"I meant no double-meaning".

The Guardian

The double-meaning is not a coincidence.

Vice

It's not some clever name with a double meaning you're literally a slice of bread.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "Double meaning", ensure that both interpretations are clear to the audience. Context is key to avoid confusion or misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid assuming that the "Double meaning" will be self-evident. Provide sufficient context for both interpretations to be understood, especially if one is subtle or relies on specific knowledge.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Double meaning" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or object to describe a word, phrase, or situation with two interpretations. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Wiki

15%

Science

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0.5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "Double meaning" is a common and grammatically correct term used to describe something with two distinct interpretations. Ludwig AI confirms that it is usable in written English. As our analysis shows, it appears frequently in contexts like news and media, wikis, and scientific publications. To effectively use "Double meaning", ensure clarity in both interpretations and provide sufficient context to avoid misinterpretations. Related phrases include "dual interpretation" and "ambiguous interpretation". Remember to offer context and avoid assuming that the "Double meaning" is obvious.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Dual interpretation

Highlights the existence of two distinct interpretations, similar to "Double meaning".

Ambiguous interpretation

Focuses on the uncertainty or open-endedness of the interpretation, rather than the presence of two specific meanings.

Twofold significance

Emphasizes the importance or impact of having two different meanings.

Second entendre

Specifies a second, often risqué, interpretation.

Multiple layers of meaning

Implies a more complex and nuanced set of interpretations beyond just two.

Hidden implication

Suggests that one meaning is not immediately obvious and requires deeper analysis.

Subtext

Focuses on the implicit or indirect meaning that is not explicitly stated.

Underlying message

Emphasizes the presence of a deeper, less apparent meaning beneath the surface.

Ironic twist

Highlights a meaning that is the opposite of the literal interpretation.

Veiled meaning

Suggests that the true meaning is concealed or obscured.

FAQs

How to use "Double meaning" in a sentence?

You can use "Double meaning" to describe a word, phrase, or situation that has two interpretations. For instance, "The title of the book has a "Double meaning", referring both to the literal journey and the protagonist's inner transformation."

What can I say instead of "Double meaning"?

You can use alternatives like "dual interpretation", "ambiguous interpretation", or "twofold significance" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "Double meaning" or "Multiple meanings"?

"Double meaning" implies specifically two meanings, whereas "Multiple meanings" suggests more than two. The correct choice depends on the number of interpretations you're referring to.

What's the difference between "Double meaning" and "Hidden meaning"?

"Double meaning" refers to the existence of two explicit interpretations. "Hidden meaning" ("hidden meaning") implies that one meaning is not immediately apparent and requires deeper analysis.