ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Soramimi

Soramimi is a term used to describe a funny thing that sometimes happens when you listen to spoken words or songs. Sometimes when we hear words or sounds, our brains mix them up and make us hear something different that is funny and unexpected.

For example, if you listen to the song "Blinded by the Light" by Bruce Springsteen, there is a part that goes "revved up like a deuce, another runner in the night." However, many people mishear it as "wrapped up like a douche, another rumor in the night." This is an example of soramimi.

Soramimi can happen in any language and can be created intentionally or by accident. It can make us laugh because it is unexpected and often silly. In some cultures, such as Japan, soramimi is a popular form of humor and is used in poetry and music.

Overall, soramimi is a fun linguistic phenomenon that can add a little bit of humor to our daily lives. So next time you mishear something, remember that you might have just experienced soramimi!
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