SOLECISM, in grammar, a false manner of speaking, contrary to the use of language and the rules of grammar, either in respect of declension, conjugation, or syntax.—The word is Greek, σολεισμός, derived from the Soli, a people of Attica, who being transplanted to Cilicia, lost the purity of their ancient tongue, and became ridiculous to the Athenians for their improprieties therein.
Solecisms, on some occasions, are pardonable: Imperitatum est à ratione ut peccare suavitatis causa liceret. Vaugelas is frequently repeating that of Quintilian, Aliud est Latine, aliud grammaticè loqui.