1. The misuse or strained application of a word or phrase, especially the use of a word in a way that is not literally correct or appropriate.
Usage: Rhetoric and linguistics term; Often used to describe mixed metaphors or forced figurative language

Examples

• Calling a computer a 'thinking machine' is a catachresis because computers do not actually think.
• The phrase 'to water down' a theory is a catachresis when applied to abstract concepts.
• His speech was full of catachresis, mixing nautical and military metaphors awkwardly.
• The poet's use of 'hungry eyes' is sometimes considered a catachresis rather than a true metaphor.
• Describing time as 'flowing' involves a catachresis since time is not a physical substance.
• The advertisement's claim that the product 'breathes new life' into your skin is a catachresis.