AP Lang Glossary of Terms to Know & Use

Diction

Word choice; the specific language a writer uses to shape tone and meaning. :: The author’s informal diction (“kids,” “stuff”) creates a conversational tone that builds trust with the audience.

Syntax

Sentence structure; how sentences are arranged and constructed. :: The author’s short, abrupt syntax emphasizes urgency and keeps the reader focused on the central claim.

Tone

The writer’s attitude toward the subject or audience. :: The sarcastic tone undermines the opposing viewpoint by making it seem unreasonable.

Imagery

Descriptive language that appeals to the senses. :: Vivid imagery of “smoke choking the sky” creates a sense of danger and immediacy.

Metaphor

A direct comparison between unlike things. :: By calling the system a “machine,” the author suggests it is impersonal and dehumanizing.

Simile

A comparison using “like” or “as.” :: The comparison of the policy to “a bandage on a broken bone” highlights its insufficiency.

Juxtaposition

Placing contrasting ideas close together for effect. :: The juxtaposition of wealth and poverty highlights the inequality the author criticizes.

Parallelism

Repeating similar grammatical structures. :: The parallel structure (“we demand justice, we demand equality, we demand change”) reinforces the urgency of the message.

Repetition

Repeating words or phrases for emphasis. :: The repetition of “we will not wait” strengthens the call to action.

Anaphora

Repetition at the beginning of successive clauses. :: The anaphora in “we believe… we believe… we believe…” builds momentum and conviction.

Rhetorical Question

A question asked for effect, not an answer. :: The rhetorical question challenges the reader to reconsider their assumptions.

Appeal to Ethos

Establishing credibility or trust. :: By referencing her years of experience, the author strengthens her ethos.

Appeal to Pathos

Appealing to emotions. :: The emotional anecdote about a struggling family appeals to the audience’s sense of compassion.

Appeal to Logos

Appealing to logic or reason. :: The use of statistics supports the argument through logical reasoning.

Anecdote

A brief personal story used to illustrate a point. :: The anecdote humanizes the issue and makes it more relatable.

Allusion

A reference to another text, event, or figure. :: The allusion to 1984 suggests a loss of individual freedom.

Connotation

The implied or emotional meaning of a word. :: The word “childlike” carries a positive connotation, suggesting innocence.

Denotation

The literal dictionary meaning of a word. :: While the denotation of “home” is a place to live, the author relies on its emotional associations.

Irony

A contrast between expectation and reality. :: The irony of praising failure exposes the flawed logic of the argument.

Satire

Using humor or exaggeration to criticize. :: The exaggerated praise of laziness satirizes societal complacency.

Hyperbole

Deliberate exaggeration. :: The hyperbolic claim that the policy will “destroy everything” heightens the sense of urgency.

Understatement

Downplaying something for effect. :: Calling the crisis “a minor inconvenience” underscores its severity through understatement.

Shift (Volta)

A change in tone, argument, or perspective. :: The shift from hopeful to critical tone marks a turning point in the argument.

Counterargument

Addressing an opposing viewpoint. :: By acknowledging the counterargument, the author appears more balanced and credible.

Refutation

Disproving an opposing argument. :: The author refutes the claim by pointing out its logical flaws.

Cause and Effect

Explaining relationships between events. :: The author links poor funding to declining outcomes to strengthen the argument.

Comparison/Contrast

Examining similarities or differences. :: The comparison between past and present highlights the lack of progress.

Inclusive Language

Using “we,” “us,” “our” to build connection. :: Inclusive language creates a sense of shared responsibility.

Loaded Language

Words with strong emotional implications. :: The use of “outrageous” and “unjust” pushes the reader toward agreement.

Figurative Language

Non-literal language (metaphor, simile, etc.). :: The figurative language makes the abstract idea more concrete.

Symbolism

Using something to represent a larger idea. :: The broken chain symbolizes freedom from oppression.

Euphemism

A mild expression replacing a harsh one. :: The euphemism softens the criticism to make it more acceptable.

Didactic Tone

Intended to teach or instruct. :: The didactic tone positions the author as an authority.

Formal vs. Informal Style

Level of language sophistication. :: The shift to informal style makes the argument more accessible.