Key Literary Devices and Rhetorical Strategies

What is a metaphor?

A figure of speech that makes a comparison between two unlike things by stating one is the other.

What is diction in writing?

The choice of words and style of expression that an author uses in their writing.

What is exigence in rhetoric?

The issue, problem, or situation that prompts someone to write or speak.

What is hyperbole?

An exaggerated statement or claim not meant to be taken literally.

What does syntax refer to in writing?

The arrangement of words and phrases to create well-formed sentences.

What are assumptions in the context of writing?

Beliefs or statements taken for granted without proof in an argument.

What is the purpose of tone in writing?

The author's attitude toward the subject, conveyed through word choice and style.

What is an allusion?

A brief reference to a person, place, thing, or idea of historical, cultural, literary, or political significance.

What is the difference between connotation and denotation?

Connotation refers to the implied or associated meaning of a word, while denotation is the literal meaning.

What are logical fallacies?

Errors in reasoning that undermine the logic of an argument.

What is parallelism in writing?

The use of similar structures in two or more phrases, clauses, or sentences.

What is the difference between inductive and deductive reasoning?

Inductive reasoning involves drawing general conclusions from specific examples, while deductive reasoning starts with a general statement and deduces specific instances.

What is ethos in rhetoric?

An appeal to ethics, credibility, or character of the speaker.

What is pathos?

An appeal to emotion in persuasive writing or speech.

What is logos?

An appeal to logic and reason in argumentation.

What is an anecdote?

A short and interesting story about a real incident or person, often used to illustrate a point.

What is kairos in rhetoric?

The opportune moment for making an argument or delivering a message.

What is a cumulative sentence?

A sentence that begins with a main clause and adds subordinate elements or modifiers.

What is a periodic sentence?

A sentence that presents its central meaning at the end, often used for emphasis.

What is irony?

A rhetorical device or figure of speech where the intended meaning is opposite to the literal meaning.

What is juxtaposition?

The placement of two or more ideas, characters, or settings side by side to highlight their contrasts.

What are qualifiers in writing?

Words or phrases that limit or modify the meaning of another word or phrase.

What is the audience in writing?

The intended readers or listeners of a piece of writing or speech.

What is the message in communication?

The main idea or underlying theme conveyed by the writer or speaker.