Rolling Vocab Week #6

ambiguity

the multiple meanings, either intentional or unintentional, of a word, phrase, sentence, or passage

antithesis

a figure of balance in which two contrasting ideas are intentionally juxtaposed, usually through parallel structure; a contrasting of opposing ideas in adjacent phrases, clauses, or sentences

concession

An acknowledgment that an opposing argument may be true or reasonable. In a strong argument, a concession is usually accompanied by a refutation challenging the validity of the opposing argumen

polemic

Greek for “hostile.” An aggressive argument that tries to establish the superiority of one opinion over all others. Polemics generally do not concede that opposing opinions have any merit

pedantic

 an adjective that describes words, phrases, or general tone that is overly scholarly, academic, or bookish (language that might be described as “show-offy”; using big words for the sake of using big words). It’s a term used to describe writing that borders on lecturing. It is scholarly and academic and often overly difficult and distant