Bible Lexicons

Bullinger's Figures of Speech Used in the BibleBullinger's Figures of Speech

Hypotimesis; or Under-Estimating

Parenthetic Addition by way of Apology or Excuse

Hy-po-ti-mee´-sis (ὑποτίμησις), from ὑπό (hypo), under, and τίμησις (timeesis), a valuing, or estimating, from τιμάω (timaô), to deem, or hold worthy. Hence, an under-estimating, under-valuing.

A parenthetical remark is so called when it is apologetic, in order to excuse some bold or extravagant use of language, such as "If I may so say," or "So to speak," or, "As it were."

The name MEILIGMATA is given to the words so used, from μείλιγμα (meiligma), anything that serves to soothe. And this from μειλίσσω (meilissô), to soothe, propitiate.

Romans 3:5.-"I speak as a man."

2 Corinthians 11:23.-"I speak as a fool."