AP Language and Composition Terms

Polysyndeton

Using extra conjunctions (like "and" or "or") to slow down the pace or emphasize every item.

Euphemism

A mild or indirect word used in place of one that is harsh or unpleasant.

Parallelism

Using similar structure, wording, or rhythm for phrases or clauses in a sentence.

Balanced Structure

A sentence where two main parts are equal in length and grammatical structure.

Convoluted Structure

A sentence that is overly complex, confusing, and hard to follow.

Denotation

A word's literal, dictionary definition.

Connotation

The emotional feeling or idea associated with a word.

Antithesis

Putting two opposite ideas together in a parallel structure for contrast.

Asyndeton

Removing conjunctions (like "and" or "but") to create a faster, more urgent rhythm.

Loose Sentence

A sentence that starts with the main idea, followed by descriptive details.

Freight Train

A long sentence made by linking many main clauses with conjunctions (often "and").

Horatian Satire

Gentle, witty, and light-hearted humor used to correct human error.

Juvenalian Satire

Harsh, bitter, and angry moral outrage used to attack serious vice or corruption.

Paradox

A statement that seems contradictory but reveals a deeper truth.

Dramatic Irony

When the audience knows something a character does not.

False Dichotomy (or False Dilemma)

Presenting only two extreme choices when other options exist.

Post hoc Causality (or Post hoc ergo propter hoc)

Assuming that because one event followed another, the first event caused the second.

Dogmatism

Asserting that one's own beliefs are absolute and cannot be questioned.

Straw Man Argument

Misrepresenting an opponent's argument to make it easier to attack.

False Analogy

A misleading comparison between two things that are too different to be truly analogous.