SBAC Academic Vocabulary

SBAC Academic Vocabulary

analyze

study or examine something carefully and methodically to understand its nature, components, or relationships. It involves breaking down an entity into its parts to determine its structure, function, or meaning. The term is used across various fields, including science, mathematics, literature, and psychology.

Example:
"The students were asked to analyze the themes in Shakespeare's play."

compare

This involves examining items to identify their similarities. It focuses on what the items have in common, using phrases like "similarly" and "both."

Example:

"When we compare the two novels, we notice several themes they share."

contrast

This involves highlighting the differences between items. It focuses on what sets them apart, using phrases like "unlike" and "whereas." For instance, contrasting two vacation spots might highlight that one is ideal for adventure sports while the other is perfect for relaxation.

Example:

"In our discussion, we will contrast the political ideologies of different historical figures."

author's intent

Author's intent refers to the purpose or message an author aims to convey through their writing. It encompasses the why and how behind the creation of a text, including the themes, ideas, or emotions the author wishes to communicate. Authorial intent can be explicit (clearly stated) or implicit (hidden within figurative language or symbolism), requiring readers to infer meaning.

Example:

In George Orwell's Animal Farm, Orwell explicitly uses allegory to critique the Russian Revolution and totalitarianism. The author's intent is clearly tied to political commentary.

author’s purpose

Author's purpose refers to the reason or motivation behind why an author writes a particular text. It is the goal the author aims to achieve, such as persuading, informing, entertaining, explaining, or describing something to their audience. The acronym PIE (Persuade, Inform, Entertain) is often used to summarize the three main categories of an author's purpose, though additional purposes like describing or analyzing may also apply depending on the text.

Example:

To Persuade:
Example: A political speech urging voters to support a candidate by presenting arguments about their policies and achievements.

To Inform:
Example: A National Geographic article on climate change providing facts and data about global warming and its impact.

To Entertain:
Example: J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series written to captivate readers with imaginative storytelling.

To Explain:
Example: A recipe detailing step-by-step instructions for cooking a dish.

To Describe:
Example: A travel essay vividly illustrating the beauty of a remote island.

author's point of view

Author's point of view refers to the perspective or stance an author takes on a subject in their writing. It reflects their opinions, attitudes, or beliefs about the topic being discussed. This can be conveyed explicitly through direct statements or implicitly through tone, word choice, and the way information is presented.

The point of view also includes the narrative perspective used in storytelling, such as first-person, second-person, or third-person narration, which shapes how the story or information is communicated to the audience.

bias

Bias refers to the tendency of an author to present information, opinions, or interpretations in a way that reflects their personal beliefs, preferences, or perspectives. This bias can influence how facts are selected, framed, or omitted, often leading to a one-sided or subjective portrayal of a topic. While bias is natural to some extent, excessive bias can compromise the credibility and objectivity of a work.

Examples of Authorial Bias

1. Political Bias:

   • In a news article, an author may favor one political party by highlighting its achievements while omitting its failures. For instance, a writer might praise a government policy without addressing its potential drawbacks.

2. Literary Example:

   • In To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, the author demonstrates bias by portraying marginalized characters like Tom Robinson sympathetically to emphasize themes of racial injustice and discrimination.

3. Cultural Bias:

   • A history textbook might glorify the achievements of one culture while downplaying or misrepresenting others, reflecting the author's cultural perspective.

credibility

Credibility refers to the quality that makes something or someone believable and trustworthy. It is the degree to which people believe and trust a person, entity, or information. Credibility is crucial in establishing trust and influence, whether in personal relationships, professional settings, or public discourse.

Examples of Credibility

1. Professional Credibility:

   • A doctor with years of experience and a good reputation has credibility because patients trust their medical advice and expertise.

2. Media Credibility:

   • News articles from reputable sources like The New York Times are considered credible due to their history of accuracy and trustworthiness.

3. Expert Credibility:

   • A former FBI agent speaking on cybersecurity has credibility due to their extensive experience and background in the field.

4. Institutional Credibility:

   • A university with a strong academic reputation enhances the credibility of its graduates and research publications.

context

Context refers to the circumstances, background, or setting in which an event, communication, or idea occurs. It provides the necessary information to understand the meaning or relevance of something. Context can be historical, cultural, physical, linguistic, or rhetorical, depending on the situation or subject matter.

Examples of Context

1. Historical Context:

   • Understanding Shakespeare's plays requires knowledge of the Elizabethan era's social and political climate.

2. Cultural Context:

   • A novel set in Japan might include traditions and societal norms unique to Japanese culture.

3. Physical Context:

   • In Lord of the Flies, the deserted island serves as the physical context that shapes the story's themes of survival and human behavior.

4. Linguistic Context:

   • The meaning of the word "bank" depends on its surrounding text—whether it refers to a financial institution or a riverbank.

contradict

Contradict means to assert the opposite of something that someone else has said or to deny the truth of a statement. It involves presenting information or evidence that conflicts with or opposes another statement, making it impossible for both to be true simultaneously.

Example:
If one person claims, "The sky is blue," and another responds, "No, it’s green," they are contradicting each other. Both statements cannot be true at the same time regarding the color of the sky.

Evidence / Elaboration to support claims and reasoning

Evidence and elaboration are essential components of effective writing, particularly in academic and persuasive contexts. Together, they help writers construct clear, compelling, and well-supported arguments or explanations.

Evidence

Evidence refers to the factual information or data used to support a claim or argument. It can include:

• Facts: Verified information (e.g., historical dates, scientific findings).

• Statistics: Numerical data that illustrates trends or patterns.

• Quotes: Statements from experts or authoritative sources.

• Examples: Specific instances that illustrate a point.

• Visuals: Charts, graphs, or maps that reinforce claims.

Evidence provides the foundation for credibility and ensures that claims are backed by reliable sources rather than personal opinions alone26.

Elaboration

Elaboration is the process of explaining, analyzing, or expanding upon evidence to show its relevance and connection to the main idea. It involves:

• Explaining why the evidence matters.

• Analyzing cause-and-effect relationships or implications.

• Providing examples, anecdotes, or comparisons to clarify points.

• Linking evidence back to the thesis or argument.
  

Elaboration ensures that evidence is not simply listed but is integrated into the writing in a meaningful way that deepens understanding.

analogy

An analogy is a comparison between two things that are typically considered unlike, with the purpose of explaining or clarifying an idea by highlighting their similarities. It involves drawing parallels between a familiar concept (the source) and an unfamiliar one (the target) to facilitate understanding. Analogies are used in various contexts, including literature, science, and everyday language, to make complex ideas more accessible.

Example:
"Life is like a box of chocolates—you never know what you're gonna get." This analogy uses a familiar concept (chocolates) to explain the unpredictability of life.

metaphor

A metaphor is a figure of speech that directly compares two unrelated things by stating that one is the other. It highlights their similarities to create vivid imagery, convey complex ideas, or evoke emotions. Unlike similes, which use "like" or "as," metaphors make a direct comparison, strengthening the connection between ideas.

Key Aspects of Metaphors:

• Direct Comparison: Metaphors equate one thing with another without using "like" or "as."

• Figurative Language: They are not meant to be taken literally but to convey deeper meanings.

• Imagery and Symbolism: Metaphors often create powerful images or symbols to convey abstract concepts.

simile

A simile is a figure of speech that compares two unlike things by using the words "like" or "as" to highlight their similarities. It explicitly states that one thing is similar to another, but they remain distinct entities. Similes are used to create vivid imagery, convey complex ideas, or evoke emotions in a more relatable way.

Key Aspects of Similes:

• Use of "like" or "as": Similes always include these words to make the comparison.

• Comparison of Unrelated Things: They compare two things that are typically different in nature.

• Figurative Language: Similes are not meant to be taken literally but to illustrate a point or create an image.

concrete details

Concrete details are specific, tangible pieces of information that provide clarity and depth to writing. They help ground abstract ideas in real-world examples, making the text more vivid, engaging, and easier for readers to visualize. Unlike abstract language, which is general or conceptual, concrete details rely on precise descriptions, facts, sensory details, or examples to create a clear mental image.

Examples of Concrete Details

1. Abstract: "The car was old."

   • Concrete: "The car had rusted doors, a cracked windshield, and tires worn down to the threads." (This provides specific imagery.)

2. Abstract: "She was upset."

   • Concrete: "Her face turned red, tears streamed down her cheeks, and her voice trembled as she tried to speak." (This uses sensory details to show emotion.)

3. Abstract: "The coffee was hot."

   • Concrete: "The coffee steamed in the cold air and burned my tongue on the first sip." (This adds sensory details like sight and touch.)

explanatory essay

An explanatory essay is a type of academic writing that aims to explain, clarify, or describe a topic, concept, or process in a neutral and objective manner. Its primary purpose is to inform and educate the reader by presenting facts, evidence, and examples without personal opinions or arguments.

narrative essay

A narrative essay is a form of academic writing that tells a story, often based on personal experiences. It uses storytelling techniques to convey a message or share a lesson with the reader. Narrative essays typically employ descriptive language, are written in the first-person perspective, and follow a chronological structure with a clear beginning, middle, and end.

argumentative essay

An argumentative essay is a type of academic writing that presents a clear stance on a debatable issue, supported by evidence and reasoning. It aims to persuade the reader to accept the writer's viewpoint or take action. This essay format typically includes an introduction with a thesis statement, body paragraphs presenting arguments and counterarguments, and a conclusion summarizing the main points.

main claim
central idea
controlling idea
main argument
main position

… the central argument or assertion in an essay or piece of writing. It serves as the foundation for the writer's argument and defines the scope, direction, and purpose of the text. The main claim is typically debatable, requiring evidence and reasoning to support it, and it often appears as a thesis statement in academic writing.

drawing a conclusion

Drawing a conclusion involves making a judgment or decision based on the information available, whether it is explicitly stated or implied. It requires analyzing facts, evaluating evidence, and using logical reasoning to form an opinion or interpretation about a situation or text

explicit

Something being “explicit” refers to information or statements that are clearly stated or expressed, leaving no room for confusion or misinterpretation. It means that something is presented openly and directly, without subtlety or ambiguity. In writing, explicit language is used to convey precise meanings, ensuring that readers understand the intended message without needing to infer it from context.

implicit

Something being “implicit” refers to something that is suggested, implied, or understood without being directly stated. It relies on context, tone, or indirect cues for its meaning to be inferred by the reader or listener. Implicit information often requires interpretation and is not plainly expressed in words.

excerpt

An excerpt is a short passage or segment taken from a larger work, such as a book, article, speech, or essay. It is used to provide readers with a glimpse into the content, often to pique their interest or illustrate key points without revealing too much of the overall narrative or argument. Excerpts can be used in various contexts, including literature, music, and film, to showcase important or engaging parts of a work.

Key Aspects of Excerpts:

• Short and Selective: Excerpts are typically brief and focus on specific, impactful sections.

• Purpose: They aim to entice readers, convey key ideas, or highlight notable passages.

• Not a Summary: Unlike summaries, excerpts do not provide a comprehensive overview of the entire work

hypothesis

A hypothesis is a statement or prediction about the relationship between two or more variables, based on observations, existing knowledge, or reasonable assumptions. It serves as the foundation for research and experimentation, guiding the process of testing and validating ideas. Hypotheses can be written as declarative statements or "if-then" predictions.

theory

In science, a theory is a well-tested and widely accepted explanation of natural phenomena, supported by a substantial body of evidence. Scientific theories are developed through the scientific method, starting as hypotheses that are repeatedly tested and verified through observation and experimentation. Unlike the casual use of "theory" as a speculative idea, scientific theories are reliable frameworks for understanding and predicting phenomena in the natural world.

conflict / tension

Literary conflict or tension refers to the struggle between opposing forces that drives the narrative (story) forward and creates interest in a story. It can be internal (within a character) or external (between characters, society, nature, or other forces). Conflict is essential for developing characters, advancing the plot, and revealing deeper themes.

Examples of Literary Conflict/Tension

1. Internal Conflict (Character vs. Self):

   • In Shakespeare’s Hamlet, Hamlet struggles with his desire for revenge against his uncle and his moral hesitation about committing murder.

2. External Conflict (Character vs. Society):

   • In The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas, Starr faces societal pressure and systemic racism while seeking justice for her friend’s death.

3. External Conflict (Character vs. Nature):

   • In Ernest Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea, Santiago battles the sea and its creatures while trying to catch and protect his fish.

to “infer” something

to “infer” something refers to the process of drawing conclusions or making educated guesses based on evidence, reasoning, and prior knowledge. It involves interpreting information that is not explicitly (not directly) stated, relying on clues and context to understand the implied meaning. Inferences are commonly used in everyday life, literature, and scientific reasoning.

synthesize

To synthesize means to combine different ideas, information, or elements into a cohesive whole. It involves analyzing and integrating multiple sources or perspectives to form a new understanding, conclusion, or argument. Synthesizing goes beyond summarizing individual pieces of information—it requires connecting them in meaningful ways to create something new and insightful.

Key Characteristics of Synthesis

• Combining Information: Brings together ideas from various sources.

• Creating Connections: Identifies relationships between concepts or arguments.

• Developing Original Insights: Produces a new perspective or unified understanding.

delineate

To delineate something means to describe, outline, or portray something with precision and detail. It can refer to sketching the physical boundaries of an object, defining a concept or idea, or explaining something clearly in words. The term originates from the Latin word dēlīneāre, meaning "to sketch" or "to draw lines."

Key Uses:

1. To Outline or Sketch: Physically marking boundaries or creating a visual representation.

2. To Describe in Words: Explaining or defining something clearly and thoroughly.

3. To Differentiate: Marking distinctions between different elements.

counterclaim & rebuttal

A counterclaim in argumentative writing is an opposing viewpoint or argument that challenges the writer's main claim. It demonstrates the writer's ability to consider and address alternative perspectives, enhancing the credibility and depth of their argument. Counterclaims are typically followed by a rebuttal, where the writer refutes or weakens the opposing argument to reaffirm their original position.

A rebuttal in argumentative writing is the response to a counterclaim, aimed at refuting or disproving the opposing viewpoint. It is a critical component of an essay's structure, as it allows the writer to defend their position while addressing objections or alternative perspectives. A well-crafted rebuttal strengthens the writer's argument by demonstrating their ability to critically evaluate and effectively counter opposing claims.

reasons in support of a main claim

Reasons are the logical statements or sub-claims that provide justification for the main claim in an argument. They explain why the claim is valid and help persuade the audience by connecting the claim to evidence. Reasons bridge the gap between the main claim and supporting evidence, making the argument more coherent and compelling.

Purpose of Reasons

1. Strengthen the Claim: They provide logical support that makes the main claim more convincing.

2. Organize the Argument: Reasons break down complex ideas into manageable sub-points, guiding readers through the argument.

3. Connect Evidence to Claim: They explain how specific pieces of evidence validate the claim.

theme

In literature, a theme is the central idea, message, or underlying meaning that a writer explores throughout a narrative. Themes are universal concepts that resonate with readers by addressing fundamental aspects of the human experience. They are typically woven into the story through characters, plot, setting, dialogue, and literary devices, often without being explicitly stated.

Key Characteristics of Themes

1. Universality: Themes often reflect ideas or truths that apply broadly to human life and society.

2. Implied Meaning: Themes are usually suggested rather than directly stated, requiring readers to interpret them.

hyperbole

Hyperbole is a literary device and figure of speech that involves deliberate exaggeration to emphasize a point, create a strong impression, or evoke emotions. It is not meant to be taken literally and is often used in literature, poetry, and everyday conversation to add emphasis or humor.

Definition and Purpose

• Exaggeration: Hyperbole exaggerates facts or feelings to convey intensity or magnitude.

• Emphasis: It adds emphasis to statements, making them more memorable or impactful.

• Emotional Effect: Hyperbole can evoke strong emotions or reactions by amplifying the description of a situation.

connotation

Connotation refers to the emotional, cultural, or implied meanings that a word carries beyond its literal dictionary definition (denotation). It is the subjective association or feeling evoked by a word, which can vary depending on context, tone, and personal or societal experiences. Connotations can be positive, negative, or neutral, influencing how a word is perceived and interpreted.

Key Characteristics of Connotation

1. Subjective Meaning: Connotations are influenced by individual or societal perceptions.

2. Emotional Impact: Words evoke feelings or ideas that shape the reader's understanding.

3. Context-Dependent: The connotation of a word can change based on its usage or setting.

Positive vs. Negative Connotation:

• Affordable (positive) vs. Cheap (negative): Both words refer to low cost, but "affordable" suggests good value, while "cheap" implies poor quality57.

• Strong-willed (positive) vs. Pig-headed (negative): Both describe stubbornness, but "strong-willed" connotes admiration, while "pig-headed" suggests frustration

denotation

Denotation refers to the literal, dictionary definition of a word—its explicit and objective meaning without any emotional, cultural, or implied associations. It represents the basic, straightforward meaning that remains consistent across contexts, serving as the foundation for understanding language at its most precise level.

Key Characteristics of Denotation

1. Literal Meaning: Denotation is the exact, factual definition of a word as found in a dictionary.

2. Objective: It is free from subjective interpretations or emotional undertones.

3. Contrast with Connotation: While connotation involves the emotional or cultural meanings a word may carry, denotation focuses solely on its explicit meaning.

objective (viewpoint)

Objective refers to a style that presents information in a neutral, unbiased, and factual manner. Objective writing avoids personal opinions, emotions, or subjective judgments, focusing instead on evidence, facts, and logical reasoning. This approach ensures clarity and credibility, allowing readers to critically evaluate the information without being influenced by the writer's personal beliefs or biases.

Key Characteristics of Objective Writing

1. Neutral Tone: Uses impartial and formal language without emotional or judgmental expressions.

2. Fact-Based: Relies on evidence, data, and verified information rather than opinions.

3. Third-Person Perspective: Avoids personal pronouns like "I" or "we" to maintain a professional distance.

4. Unbiased Presentation: Eliminates exaggeration and stereotypes, ensuring fairness and accuracy.

subjective (viewpoint)

Subjective refers to a style that is based on personal opinions, feelings, beliefs, and perspectives rather than factual or verifiable evidence. It often involves emotional language, first-person pronouns, and value judgments, making it more expressive and individualized. This type of writing is commonly used in creative works, opinion pieces, and personal essays where the goal is to share personal viewpoints or evoke an emotional response.

tone

Tone

• Definition: Tone refers to the author’s attitude toward the subject, characters, or audience. It is conveyed through word choice, style, and the narrator’s perspective.

• Purpose: Tone helps readers understand how the author feels about the narrative and shapes their interpretation of the story’s themes.

• Examples:

  • In Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, the tone is light-hearted and ironic, as seen in the famous opening line: “It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.” This playful tone critiques societal norms37.

  • In Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens, the tone is matter-of-fact yet subtly critical when describing the harsh treatment of children in workhouses8.

mood

Mood

• Definition: Mood refers to the emotional atmosphere or feeling evoked in readers by the story. It is created through setting, imagery, diction, and tone.

• Purpose: Mood immerses readers in the narrative by influencing their emotional response to events or scenes.

• Examples:

  • In Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad, the mood is eerie and foreboding as the narrator approaches a compound surrounded by human heads on stakes.

  • In Brighton Rock by Graham Greene, descriptions of a seaside holiday evoke a somber and dismal mood despite the setting’s cheerful surface.

Key differences between “tone” and “mood”

Aspect	Tone	Mood
Definition	Author’s attitude toward subject/audience	Emotional atmosphere felt by readers
Focus	Writer’s perspective	Reader’s emotional response
Examples	Ironic, critical, playful	Cheerful, eerie, somber

List of transitions to use in writing…

To Add Information

• Examples: and, also, besides, further, furthermore, in addition, moreover, too, what's more, equally important.

• Usage: These words help expand on ideas by adding more details or supporting points.

To Compare

• Examples: similarly, likewise, in the same way, just as, compared to, equally.

• Usage: Use these to highlight similarities between ideas or concepts.

To Contrast

• Examples: however, on the other hand, yet, conversely, nevertheless, although, despite.

• Usage: These words signal a shift to an opposing idea or viewpoint.

To Show Cause and Effect

• Examples: because, since, therefore, thus, consequently, as a result.

• Usage: Indicate how one event leads to another.

To Provide Examples

• Examples: for example, for instance, in particular, specifically, to illustrate.

• Usage: Introduce specific cases or illustrations to support a general statement.

To Show Time or Sequence

• Examples: first, next, then, after, afterward, subsequently, finally.

• Usage: Organize ideas in a chronological order or sequence.

To Emphasize

• Examples: indeed, in fact, definitely, certainly, undoubtedly.

• Usage: Stress the importance or certainty of a point.

To Summarize or Conclude

• Examples: in conclusion, to conclude, in summary, finally, therefore.

• Usage: Wrap up the main points or draw a conclusion.

These transitional words help create a smooth flow between sentences and paragraphs, making your writing more cohesive and easier to follow.

If something is “coherent” or “cohesive”… (coherence)

…it is logical and well-organized, allowing ideas to flow smoothly from one to another.

How to know a source is credible…

How to Determine Source Credibility

To evaluate a source's credibility…

1. Currency: Is the Information Current?

• Check the publication date: Is it recent enough for your topic? (e.g., scientific studies often require sources less than 5 years old).

• Ask: Does outdated information weaken the source’s validity (e.g., pre-2020 data on pandemic responses)?

2. Relevance: Is the Source Applicable to Your Research?

• Audience: Is the content tailored to experts, students, or the general public? Adjust based on your needs.

• Scope: Does it address your specific research question? Avoid tangential or overly broad sources.

3. Authority: Who Created the Source?

• Author credentials: Are they experts in the field (e.g., academic degrees, institutional affiliations)?

• Publisher reputation: Is it a peer-reviewed journal, university press, or respected organization (e.g., NIH, WHO)?

• Red flags: Be cautious of anonymous authors or sources from unknown entities.

4. Accuracy: Is the Information Reliable?

• Evidence: Does the source cite data, studies, or verifiable references?

• Tone: Is the language objective and professional, or emotional/persuasive?

• Consistency: Cross-check claims with other credible sources to avoid misinformation.

5. Purpose: Why Was the Source Created?

• Intent: Is it meant to inform, persuade, sell, or entertain? Bias may skew objectivity (e.g., corporate-funded studies).

• Audience influence: Does the target audience (e.g., policymakers vs. consumers) affect the presentation of facts?

• Completeness: Are opposing viewpoints acknowledged, or is critical information omitted?

symbolism

Symbolism is a literary device where objects, characters, settings, or actions represent deeper meanings beyond their literal sense.

Key Characteristics of Symbolism

1. Dual Meaning: Symbols have a literal role in the story and a figurative meaning that connects to broader ideas (e.g., a dove representing peace).

2. Recurrence: Symbols often reappear throughout a text to reinforce themes.

3. Context-Dependent: A symbol’s meaning depends on the story’s themes, cultural context, and author’s intent.

Common Symbols in Literature

Symbol	Common Meaning	Example
Light	Knowledge, hope	The green light in The Great Gatsby3
Water	Rebirth, purification	The river in Huckleberry Finn5
Seasons	Life cycles (e.g., winter = death)	The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe5
Colors	Emotions/themes (e.g., red = passion)	Blanche’s white/red robes in A Streetcar Named Desire

irony

Three Main Types of Irony

1. Verbal Irony:

   • Definition: A character says one thing but means the opposite, often for sarcasm or humor.

   • Example: In Romeo and Juliet, Juliet calls Romeo "beautiful tyrant" after he kills her cousin—a phrase that contradicts his true nature.

   • Purpose: Highlights hypocrisy, adds humor, or underscores tension.

2. Situational Irony:

   • Definition: An outcome that starkly contrasts what was expected.

   • Example: In The Gift of the Magi, a husband sells his watch to buy combs for his wife’s hair, while she cuts her hair to buy a chain for his watch.

   • Purpose: Emphasizes life’s unpredictability or critiques societal norms.

3. Dramatic Irony:

   • Definition: The audience knows critical information that characters do not.

   • Example: In Othello, the audience knows Iago is deceitful, but Othello trusts him blindly.

   • Purpose: Builds suspense or underscores tragic flaws.

allusion

Allusion is a literary device where writers reference well-known people, events, or works to add meaning without direct explanation.

Key Characteristics

1. Indirect Reference: The connection is implied, not explicitly stated.

   • Example: Describing a betrayal as "her own Judas moment" alludes to the biblical story of Judas Iscariot.

2. Shared Knowledge: Effective allusions depend on the audience’s familiarity with the source.

3. Economical: Conveys layered meanings without lengthy explanation.

Examples:
"That new kid is a real Einstein in math class."

The Allusion: References Albert Einstein to highlight intelligence.

"She’s got Ariel vibes with her singing voice."

The Allusion: Compares someone to Disney’s Little Mermaid character, known for her voice.

“Going down that conspiracy theory was a rabbit hole."

The Allusion: Refers to Alice in Wonderland, symbolizing a deep, distracting exploration.