English Literary Terms

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key literary terms and definitions from the provided study list.

Denotative

The literal meaning of a word. Example: The denotative meaning of ‘home’ is a place where one lives.

Connotation

The evolved meaning or feeling associated with a word beyond its literal definition. Example: The connotation of ‘home’ often includes warmth, comfort, and family.

Foreshadowing

A hint provided by suggestion before an event occurs. Example: In a mystery novel, a closed door might foreshadow a surprise revelation.

Hero

A man or woman who is generally admired. Example: Nelson Mandela is often considered a hero for his fight against apartheid.

Anti-hero

The opposite of a traditional hero. Example: Walter White from 'Breaking Bad' is an example of an anti-hero.

Hubris

Exaggerated pride. Example: A character's hubris may lead them to ignore warnings and face dire consequences.

Hyperbole

An exaggeration. Example: Saying ‘I am so hungry I could eat a horse’ is an example of hyperbole.

Iambic pentameter

A poetic rhythm consisting of $10$ syllables. Example: Shakespeare often used iambic pentameter in his plays, such as in ‘Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?’

Onomatopoeia

Words that imitate sounds, such as "BOOM", "pop", and "snap". Example: The word ‘buzz’ mimics the sound of a bee.

Oxymoron

A combination of opposite terms, such as "Jumbo shrimp". Example: ‘Bitter sweet’ is an oxymoron often used to express complex emotions.

Prologue

The start or section before the main story. Example: The prologue of a book may establish the setting or background necessary for understanding the plot.

Epilogue

The finish or concluding section of a story. Example: The epilogue of a novel often addresses the aftermath of the main events.

Syntax

The way words are put together. Example: ‘The dog bit the man’ vs. ‘The man bit the dog’ illustrates how syntax changes meaning.

Epiphany

A moment of understanding. Example: A character may experience an epiphany when they realize their true feelings.

Epistrophe

The repetition of words. Example: In a speech, a speaker might use epistrophe by repeating ‘We will not give up’ at the end of several sentences.

Paradox

A seemingly contradictory statement, such as 'Less is more'. Example: The phrase ‘This statement is false’ presents a paradox.

Pathos

An element that evokes emotion and passion. Example: A sad story that elicits tears often uses pathos effectively.

Pun

A joke based on wordplay. Example: ‘Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana’ is a classic pun.

Soliloquy

Talking to oneself. Example: Many characters in drama express their thoughts and feelings through a soliloquy.

Vernacular

Everyday language, including Dialect, Jargon, and Slang. Example: Vernacular language may differ significantly from formal speech, as seen in regional dialects.