Rhetorical Analysis Vocab List 1

Connotation

The secondary, implied, or suggested meaning of a word.

Denotation

The actual, literal meaning of the word.

Diction

A writer or speaker’s choice of words, synonymous with style.

Syntax

The grammatical order in which words are placed.

Tone

The attitude the writer takes towards her subject or in her writing.

Explicit

Directly stated, leaving no question about the meaning.

Implicit

Implied, but not directly stated; hinted at.

Infer

To deduce or conclude information based on facts or evidence.

Parallelism

Similarity of structure in a pair or series of related words, phrases, or clauses.

Periodic sentence

A sentence in which the main clause is postponed until the end.

Cumulative sentence

A sentence where subordinate elements come at the end.

Balanced sentence

A sentence where two parallel elements are set off against each other.

Antithesis

Opposition or contrast of words or ideas within a balanced sentence.

Inversion

The reversal of normal grammatical word order for emphasis.

Analogy

A comparison of similar things, typically using something familiar to explain something unfamiliar.

Qualification

A restriction in meaning or application in argument or logic.

Logical Fallacies

Incorrect reasoning in argument that often exploits emotional triggers.

Metaphor

A comparison not using like or as; something representing or symbolic of something else.

Simile

A comparison using like or as.

Apostrophe

A dramatic address to someone not present.

Allusion

An indirect reference to something outside the text—usually another work of art.

Hyperbole

Obvious and intentional exaggeration—for rhetoric