Apophasis (a-pof’-a-sis): The rejection of several reasons why a thing should or should not be done and affirming a single one, considered most valid.
Should I get another tattoo?
1. No. Three are enough.
2. No. My wife will hit me with a garden tool.
3. No. I’m too old for another tattoo.
So, I guess not.
Hmmm. Wait a minute–I’ve changed my mind. I really, really, really want another tattoo, and wanting another one is a good enough reason for me.
Why else would you get a tattoo?
Now, I’ve got to figure out what it’s going to be and where to put it. Major challenge.
Post your own apophasis on the “Comments” page!
Definition courtesy of “Silva Rhetoricae” (rhetoric.byu.edu)
