AP words to learn

Anastrophe

The change of the order in a phrase in order to create emphasis or rhythm. Ex: “You have become powerful” —>" “Powerful you have become”.

Syllogism

A form of reasoning when conclusions are drawn by two or more propositions. Maj. Premise + Min. Premise = conclusion. Ex: All men are mortal + Socrates is a man = Socrates in mortal

Metonymy

Figure of speech when something is called a word/name closely associated with that thing. Ex: “The Crown” = Royalty

Litotes

An understatement that is used for rhetorical effect. Sometimes can be a negative that is expressing a positive. Ex: “He’s not unattractive” (He’s attractive)

Synecdoche

Figure of speech that is used when something is part of a whole, and represents that whole. Ex: Wheels (To a car), American (All American teams)

Chiasmus

Cris-cross pattern/structure in writing. Ex: A-B-B-C

Euphemism

A softer way of putting something harsh. Ex: “Died” —> “Passed away”

Rhetorical Modes/Modes of Discourse

Four Traditional Modes: Narration, description, exposition, and argumentation. Methods of Dev.: Compare+Contrast, cause of affect, process analysis, classification+division, definition

Parallel Sentence

Grammatical form for similar words, phrases, or odeas. Used for clarity. Ex: I like swimming, cycling, and running.

Paradox

A statement that appears self-contradictory but has a deeper truth. Ex: Less is more

Expositon

An introduction of background events, settings, characters, or relevant aspects of the story. Ex: The intro to Repunzel

Antithesis

Rhetorical device that presents two directly opposite ideas in parallel construction. Ex: Good vs. Evil

Anadiplosis

A word or phrase that is repeated as the first word or phrase of the next clause or sentence. Ex: “He worked hard, hard for his family”

Alliteration

The repetition of the same consonant sound of the beginning of closely connected words. Ex: Shelly sold sea shell by the sea shore

Aphorism

A short statement that contains general truth. A rule of thumb. Ex: A penny saved, a penny earned”

Zeugma

Figure of speech with either a verb or an adjective that is used to refer to two or more parts in a sentence. Ex: She broke his heart and his car