AP Lang Presentation Vocab Cards

“Subsuming” (Carr 83)

• To include or absorb in something else

  • The complex choice of this verb, as opposed to something such as “retain,” shows the knowledge of the author. The impact of using this word on the speaker’s style creates consistency of a formal tone, likely in dedication of the author’s need to appeal to the seriousness of the situation.

“Eschew” (Carr 107)

• Deliberately avoid using; abstain from

  • The usage of this negative word is to reinforce Carr’s opinion (on writers, as this is the context of the situation). This word is another consistency in Carr’s perception of how the effect of the Internet is not healthy for society, further appealing to his disdain evident throughout majority of the book.

“Idiosyncratic” (Carr 143)

• A mode of behavior or way of thought peculiar to an individual

  • This term was used in Carr’s perspective of singular intelligence being viewed as an idiosyncratic mindset. Once more, using negative diction affects the speaker’s style by fortifying his dislike. It only shows the reader more how his critical ideologies are upheld.

“Contingency” (Carr 191) 

• A future event or circumstance which is possible, but cannot be predicted with certainty

  • Using a word that incorporates doubt in Carr’s knowledge, is, in itself, an acknowledgement of his thoughts and opinions also being wronged as well. It impacts the style by showing his ability to present facts, while also admitting that they are not predetermined.

“Salience” (Carr 234)

• The quality of being particularly noticeable or important; prominence

  • The choice of this word is another example of formal diction that contributes to his writing style and how the reader may perceive the solemnity of the circumstance.