Literary Vocabulary Terms

Flashcards covering key terms related to literary vocabulary with definitions to assist in exam preparation.

Denotation

The strict, literal, dictionary definition of a word, devoid of any emotion, attitude, or color.

Diacope

Repetition of a word or phrase after an intervening word or phrase, e.g., 'We will do it, I tell you; we will do it.'

Diction

The writer's word choices, particularly regarding their correctness, clearness, or effectiveness.

Didactic

Literally means 'teaching'; works aim to instruct or teach, especially moral or ethical principles.

Enumeration

Figure of amplification in which a subject is divided into constituent parts or details, often listing causes or effects.

Expletive

Figure of emphasis using a single word or short phrase to lend emphasis to the surrounding words.

Euphemism

A more agreeable or less offensive substitute for a generally unpleasant word or concept.

Exposition

One of the four chief types of composition; its purpose is to explain something in essays and dramas.

Extended metaphor

A metaphor developed at great length, occurring frequently throughout a work.

Figurative language

Writing or speech that is not intended to carry literal meaning and is meant to be imaginative and vivid.

Figure of speech

A device used to produce figurative language, including metaphor, simile, irony, and more.

Generic conventions

Traditions for each genre that help to define them and distinguish between different types of writing.

Genre

The major category into which a literary work fits, such as prose, poetry, or drama.

Homily

A serious talk or lecture involving moral or spiritual advice, often synonymous with 'sermon'.

Hyperbole

A figure of speech using deliberate exaggeration or overstatement, often for comic or ironic effect.

Hypophora

Figure of reasoning in which one or more questions are asked and then answered by the same speaker.

Imagery

Sensory details or figurative language used to describe, arouse emotion, or represent abstractions.