Barron's Terms - List Three

AP Terms List 3

critique

an analysis or assessment of a thing or situation for the purpose of determining its nature, limitations, and conformity to a set of standards.

cynic

one who expects and observes nothing but the worst of human conduct.

deductive reasoning

a method of reasoning by which specific definitions, conclusions, and theorems are drawn from general principles. its opposite is inductive reasoning.

denotation

the dictionary definition of a word. contrast with connotation.

dénouement

the resolution that occurs at the end of a narrative or drama, real or imagined.

descriptive detail

graphic, exact, and accurate presentation of the characteristics of a person, place, or thing.

deus ex machina

in literature, the use of an artificial device or gimmick to solve a problem.

diction

the choice of words in oral and written discourse.

didactic

having an instructive purpose; intending to convey information or teach a lesson, usually in a dry, pompous manner.

digression

that portion of discourse that wanders or departs from the main subject or topic.

Dionysian

as distinguished from Apollonian, the word refers to sensual, pleasure-seeking impulses.

dramatic irony

a circumstance in which the audience or reader knows more about a situation than a character.

elegy

a poem or prose selection that laments or meditates on the passing or death of someone or something of value. the adjective describing an elegy is elegiac.

ellipsis

three periods (…) indicating the omission of words in a thought or quotation.

elliptical construction

a sentence containing a deliberate omission of words. in the sentence “May was hot and June the same,” the verb ‘was’ is omitted from the second clause.

empathy

a feeling of association or identification with an object or person.

epic

a narrative poem that tells of the adventures and exploits of a hero.

epigram

a concise but ingenious, witty, and thoughtful statement.

epithet

an adjective or phrase that expresses a striking quality of a person or thing; sun-bright topaz, sun-lit lake, and sun-bright lake are examples. can also be used to apply to vulgar or profane exclamations.

eponymous

a term for the title character of a work of literature.

ethos

a speaker’s or author’s authority to express opinions on a subject. the ethos of a professional wrestler, for instance, to speak credibly about, say, philosophy or metaphysics, is questionable.

euphemism

a mild or less negative usage for a harsh or blunt term. ex.) pass away is a euphemism for die.

euphony

pleasing, harmonious sounds.

exegesis

a detailed analysis or interpretation of a work of prose or poetry.

explication

the interpretation or analysis of a text.

exposé

a factual piece of writing that reveals weaknesses, faults, frailties, or other short-comings.