Rhetorical Devices and Literary Terms

Comprehensive vocabulary flashcards defining key rhetorical devices, figurative language, and stylistic choices covered in the lecture notes.

Analogy

A comparison showing how two different things are alike.

Metaphor

A direct comparison stating one thing is another without using "like" or "as."

Simile

A comparison between two things using "like" or "as."

Hyperbole

A deliberate and extreme exaggeration.

Understatement

Presenting something as far less important than it actually is.

Juxtaposition

Placing two contrasting things side-by-side to highlight differences.

Imagery

Vivid sensory language that appeals to sight, sound, smell, taste, or touch.

Alliteration

Repeating the same starting consonant sounds in nearby words.

Allusion

A brief, indirect reference to a famous person, place, event, or text.

Refrain

A line or phrase repeated at intervals throughout a text.

Anaphora

Repeating the same word or phrase at the start of successive clauses.

Repetition

Repeating words or phrases to emphasize an idea.

Parallelism

Repeating identical grammatical structures in phrases or sentences.

Tone

The author's attitude toward the subject or audience.

Undertone

A hidden, subtle meaning or attitude beneath the surface tone.

Words w/heavy connotations

Words carrying strong emotional or cultural meanings beyond their literal definition.

Selection of detail

The specific facts and descriptions an author chooses to include or omit.

Lists

A sequence of connected items used to build momentum or scope.

Irony

A contrast between what is stated and what is actually meant.

Paradox

A statement that seems contradictory but reveals a deeper truth.

Anecdote

A short personal story used to illustrate a point.

Humor

Elements designed to amuse the audience and diffuse tension.

Satire

Using irony and wit to mock and criticize societal flaws or vices.

Sarcasm / verbal irony

Saying the opposite of what is meant, often to mock.

Invective

Harsh, abusive language used to attack or denounce.

Appeals (in general)

Methods of persuasion targeting logic (logos), ethics (ethos), or emotion (pathos).

Rhetorical questions

Questions asked for effect rather than to get an answer.

Short, staccato sentences

Brief, abrupt sentences used to create urgency or emphasis.

Antithesis

Pairing two opposite ideas using parallel grammatical structures.