Key Terms

These flashcards cover key concepts and definitions related to linguistic techniques and various literary devices.

What is a metaphor?

A figure of speech containing an implied comparison.

Give an example of a metaphor related to emotions.

He broke my heart.

What is personification?

A figure of speech in which an idea or thing is given human attributes or feelings.

Provide an example of personification from the notes.

I was a wee beastie wi' yellow teeth and doggie breath.

What is the definition of allusion?

A reference to a person, place, thing, event, or other literary work with which the reader is presumably familiar.

Provide an example of allusion from the notes.

His smile is like kryptonite to me.

What does a symbol represent in literature?

Something that stands for or suggests something else, embodying additional meaning and significance.

Give an example of a symbol and its meaning.

A red rose symbolizes love and romance.

What is simile?

A figure of speech that compares two different things using the words 'like' or 'as'.

Provide an example of a simile from the notes.

I wandered lonely as a cloud that floats on high o’er vales and hills.

What is foreshadowing?

A literary device that hints to readers something that is to follow or appear later in a story.

What is an anecdote?

A very short story significant to the topic at hand, usually adding personal knowledge or experience.

What is hyperbole?

A figure of speech in which exaggeration is used for emphasis or effect.

Provide an example of hyperbole from the notes.

It has floated away down a dark mythological river whose name begins with an L.

Define jargon.

The use of specific phrases and words in a particular situation, profession, or trade.

What is an imperative sentence?

A sentence used to issue a command or instruction, make a request, or offer advice.

Provide an example of an imperative from the notes.

Preheat the oven.

What are modal verbs?

Verbs that show possibility, intent, ability, or necessity, used in conjunction with a main verb.

What is ambiguity?

A word, phrase, or statement which contains more than one meaning and leads to vagueness or confusion.

What is the definition of anaphora?

The repetition of the same word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses or verses.

What is direct speech?

A report of the exact words used by a speaker or writer, usually placed inside quotation marks.