Literature Glossary
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Over 200 literary terms, Shmooped to perfection.
Bon Mot
Definition:
A bon mot is a clever remark. The term itself is French, and it literally means "good word," but your typical bon mot includes several good words. Check it out:
- "Americans always try to do the right thing—after they've tried everything else"—Winston Churchill
- "A faith that cannot survive collision with the truth is not worth many regrets"—Arthur C. Clarke
- "I have never killed a man, but I have read many obituaries with great pleasure"—Clarence Darrow
If it's pithy, if it's pointed, if it's a witty turn of phrase… voilà! That's a bon mot.