AP Language & Composition

Terms, Definition, Sentence

Diction

The choice and use of words and phrases in speech or writing, which can convey tone, attitude, and meaning. Diction can vary based on context, purpose, and audience.

Syntax

The arrangement of words and phrases to create well-formed sentences in a language. Syntax affects clarity, meaning, and style.

Tone

The overall mood or emotional quality conveyed by a piece of writing or speech, influenced by word choice, style, and perspective.

Style

The distinctive manner in which a writer uses language, characterized by elements such as word choice, sentence structure, and figurative language. Style shapes the voice of the writing and can reflect the author's personality and purpose.

Point Of View

The vantage point from which a story is narrated, influencing how readers perceive the events and characters.

Rhetoric

The art of effective or persuasive speaking or writing, utilizing various techniques to influence an audience's thoughts and feelings.

Ethos

A rhetorical appeal to credibility and ethics, convincing the audience through the speaker's or writer's character and integrity.

Pathos

an appeal to emotion used in rhetoric to persuade an audience.

Logos

A rhetorical appeal to logic and reason, aiming to persuade the audience through factual evidence and rational arguments.

Rhetorical Question

A question posed for dramatic effect rather than to elicit an answer, often used to engage the audience or emphasize a point.

Concess

ion is a rhetorical strategy where the speaker acknowledges a counterargument or opposing viewpoint to strengthen their own argument.

Fallacy

Pedantic

characterized by an excessive concern for minor details and rules, often in a way that could be considered ostentatious or showy.

Didactic

Ironic

Reflective

Accusatory

Sarcastic

Genuine

Witty

Colloquial

Imagery

Hyberbole

Understatement

Simile

Metaphor

Extended Metaphor

Symbol

Oxymoron

Paradox

Personification

Allusion

Purpose

Audience

Denotati

Connotation

Implication

Parallelism

Synthesis

Ambiguity

Antecedent

Parody

Repetition

Juxtaposition

Analogy

Lyrical

Prose

Claim

Satire (Satirical)

Anecdote/ anecdotal