Rhetorical Devices (PHIL 105 week3)

Euphemisms

A positive expression instead of one that carries negative associations

Dysphemism

A negative expression instead of one that carries positive associations

Weasler

A type of slander that weakens a claim and gives its author a way out in case that claim is challenged

EX: when trying to sell discounts they’ll say “on selected items” “up to #% off”

Loaded question

A question that rests on unwarranted or unjustified assumptions

EX: did you cheat on the homework again?

Ridicule and Sarcasm

The substation of someone or something to contemptuous and dismissive language and behavior

EX: sure because clearly that fixes everything

Repetition (in rhetorical)

Something is said or shown multiple times

Proof Surrogate

Suggest that evidence for claim exist without actually offering and evidence

EX: everyone knows the moon landing was a fake done by Stanley Kubrick

Argument from outrage

An attempt to convince by use of inflammatory words inciting anger

EX: the governments new law is outrageous!!!

Scare Tactic

An attempt to scare people into doing something or accepting a position

EX: take this medicine or you’ll die!!!

Guilt trip

An attempt to get someone to conclude because we are made to feel guilty if we do not

EX: I can’t believe your not coming after I put all that effort in

Wishful thinking

Accepting a claim simply because it would be pleasant and if it were true

EX: my crush likes me they just haven’t realized

Argument from Pity

Feeling sorry for someone drives us to a position on an u related matter

EX: I really need this job my family is struggling we won’t make it this month without the job

Apple-polishing

An attempt to get someone to come to a conclusion because of flattery or ego rather than evidence

EX: your such an amazing teacher can I get an extension

Red herring

The argument presented rests on a topic that distracts from and it not directly the original point

EX: arguing about chores and then talking about family drama

Rationalizing

Using a false pretext to justify a claim or action. Rationalization involves an element of self-deception

EX: telling oneself “I work better under pressure I’ll just save the hw for later.