Terminology List One

Diciton

an author’s word choice

Concrete Language

descriptions of real, physical, observable things

Connotation

the non-literal, associative meaning of a word

Denotation

the strict, literal, dictionary definition of a word

Tone

the author’s attitude toward his or her material, the audience, or both

Ambiguity

the multiple meanings, either intentional or unintentional, of a word, phrase, sentence, or work

Bombast

boastful talk; high-sounding language with little meaning

Colloquial

the use of slang and informalities

Didactic

describes a work that teaches a lesson or moral

Invective

a violent verbal denunciation or attack using strong, abusive language

Abstract Language

language describing ideas and qualities, things that cannot be touched

Irony

the contrast between what is stated explicitly and what is really meant

Pedantic

describes words, phrases, or general tone that overly scholarly, academic, or bookish

Sarcasm

bitter, caustic language that is meant to hurt or ridicule someone or something

Verisimilitude

the quality of realism in a work that persuades the reader that he/she is getting a version of life as it really is