Rhetorical Devices

Litotes

An understatement that is created by utilizing a negative to affirm a positive

Antithesis

 Is the use of contrasting language to bring about a contrast in ideas.

Hypophora

Is the technique of asking a question and then answering it.

Rhetorical Question

 Is a question where the answer is implied, highlighting something the audience knows.

Procatalepsis

 Is conscious attempt to address objections or counterarguments, furthering the argument while also satisfying the audience.

Asyndeton

 Leaves out conjunctions in a list or between clauses

Polysyndeton

Puts a conjunction between every item

Distinctio

Is a choice where the writer elaborates on the definition of a word, to make sure there is no misunderstanding.

Metabasis

Is an organizational device used to sum up a body of work that comes before, so you can move on to a new point (think: effective transitions).

Anadiplosis

Is the repetition of the last word of a sentence or phrase and repeats it at/near the beginning of the next sentence or phrase. 

Conduplicatio

Is the repetition of a word from anywhere in a sentence or phrase and repeats it at the beginning of the next sentence or phrase. 

Analogy

A comparison between two things, typically for the purpose of explanation or clarification, showing how they are alike in certain respects.

Eponym

A name derived from a particular person or group, often used to lend weight or authority to an argument.

Sententia

A brief sentence or phrase conveying a wise or clever interpretation of a subject.

Exemplum

An example or model, often used to illustrate a point or support an argument.

Parallelism

The use of similar structures in two or more clauses to create rhythm and clarity.

Chiasmus

A rhetorical device where two or more clauses are balanced against each other by the reversal of their structures.