Rhetorical Device Vocabulary 1

Juxtaposition

Putting two contrasting elements together that are so unlike that the effect is surprising, witty, or even startling.

Paradox

A seemingly absurd or contradictory statement or proposition that, when investigated or explained, may prove to be well-founded or true.

Imagery

Vivid descriptions that appeal to a readers 5 sense.

Parallelism

Several parts of a sentence or several sentences expressed in a similar grammatical form to show that the ideas are equal in importance.

Metaphor

Comparison without using "like "or "as.

Inference

A logical assumption or educated guess based on facts or observed knowledge.

Tone

The attitude or emotion of an author shown in their writing.

Denotation

The dictionary definition of a word.

Allusion

A brief reference to a famous person or event- often from literature, history, Greek mythology, or the Bible.

Symbolism

Using concrete objects, images, or characters to represent a larger, more universal idea.

Alliteration

The repetition of the first consonant sound, occurring close together in a series.

Connotation

An attitude of feeling associated with a specific word.

Diction

An author's word choice.

Anecdote

A usually short narrative (story) of an interesting, amusing, or biographical incident.

Understatement

A statement that says less than it means; often used for comedic effect.

Euphemism

A mild or pleasant term used in place of an unpleasant or offensive one.

Rhetorical Question

A question posed for effect, not requiring an answer.

Purpose

The reason an author writes a text: usually to inform, persuade, or entertain

Verbal Irony

A statement that expresses the opposite of the literal meaning of the words. Often used for humorous or sarcastic effect

Theme

An underlying message about life or human nature that an author wants you to take away from a text