Rhetorical Terms Quiz #3

ad hominem argument

An argument that attacks the integrity or character of an opponent rather than the merits of an issue; also known as mud-slinging

analogy

A comparison that attempts to explain one idea or thing by likening it to another

anecdote

A brief story or account of an interesting or amusing incident used to illustrate a generalization or claim

appeal to ethos

A persuasive strategy that appeals to credibility or authority

appeal to logos

A persuasive strategy that appeals to logic and reason using facts

appeal to pathos

A persuasive strategy that appeals to emotion or feelings rather than strict reason

begging the question

An argument based on an assumption that the audience does not accept

causal relationship

A cause-and-effect relationship in which one event produces another

colloquialism

An informal word or expression inappropriate for formal discourse

conclusion

The final part of an essay that sums up ideas and brings the essay to a close

connotation

The emotional or implied meaning of a word beyond its literal definition

emphasis

A rhetorical principle that stresses important ideas over less important ones

essay

A written composition that may be formal or informal in style and structure

euphemism

A mild or agreeable substitute for a harsh or unpleasant word or idea

example

A specific instance that illustrates or supports an idea or claim

generalization

A broad statement based on knowledge of specific cases

logical fallacy

An error in reasoning used to mislead or manipulate an audience

objective writing

Writing that presents information fairly and without bias

subjective writing

Writing that emphasizes personal opinions and interpretations

red herring

A distraction introduced into an argument to divert attention from the main issue

sarcasm

A form of verbal irony intended to mock or ridicule

satire

A genre that uses humor or irony to criticize and correct faults

subordination

Expressing less important ideas in dependent clauses or phrases

tone

The author’s attitude toward the subject reflected in the writing

understatement

Deliberately representing something as less important than it is

voice

The author’s distinct style or presence that sounds natural in writing