Literary Devices and Rhetorical Strategies: Definitions and Examples

Denotation

The strict, literal, dictionary definition of a word, without emotion, attitude, or color.

Diction

Word choice; relates to style. Can be formal/informal, ornate/plain. Shapes tone and complements author's purpose.

Didactic

From Greek "teaching." Works with the primary aim of instructing, especially moral/ethical principles.

Enumeratio

Figure of amplification—subject divided into parts/details, often listing causes, effects, problems, solutions. Ex: "I love her eyes, her hair, her nose, her cheeks, her lips."

Euphemism

From Greek "good speech." A more agreeable/less offensive substitute for unpleasant words. Ex: "earthly remains" instead of "corpse."

Exposition

Writing that explains. In drama, the intro material that sets tone, setting, characters, and conflict.

Extended Metaphor

A metaphor developed at great length, recurring throughout a work.

Figurative Language

Non-literal writing/speech meant to be imaginative and vivid.

Figure of Speech

Device producing figurative language. Includes apostrophe, hyperbole, irony, oxymoron, paradox, simile, etc.

Genre

Major category of literature: prose, poetry, drama. Subdivisions include fiction, nonfiction, lyric, epic, tragedy, comedy, etc.

Homily

Literally "sermon." More broadly, any serious talk, speech, or lecture involving moral/spiritual advice.

Hyperbole

Deliberate exaggeration/overstatement. Can be comic or serious, often produces irony. Ex: "The only thing we have to fear is fear itself."

Hypophora

Figure of reasoning where a speaker asks and then answers their own question(s). Ex: "What did America do? It did what it always has done..."

Imagery

Sensory details/figurative language to describe, arouse emotion, or represent abstractions. Appeals to five senses; can symbolize deeper meaning.