AP Lang Terms

Absolute

A statement ("Wind farms are the best way for all countries to support their power needs") or word ("best," "all", "unique," "perfect") free from limitations or

qualifications. In general, you should not argue in absolutes

Allusion

A reference to something literary, mythological, or historical that the author assumes the reader will know

Analogy

A comparison of two different things that are similar in some way

Anecdote

A brief narrative that focuses on a particular incident or event.

Antecedent

The word, phrase, or clause referred to by a pronoun.

Connotation

the implied or associative meaning of a word

Denotation

the literal meaning of a word; dictionary definition

Diction

the word choices made by a writer

Ethos

the persuasive appeal of one's character, or credibility

Euphemism

An indirect, less offensive way of saying something that is considered unpleasant

Figurative Language

Language employing one or more figures of speech

Hyperbole

intentional exaggeration to create an effect

Imagery

Using vivid writing to appeal to one of the five senses

Implication

An idea that is communicated indirectly, through a suggestion or hint

Inversion

A sentence constructed outside the typical syntactical order

Irony

the use of words to convey a meaning that is the opposite of its literal meaning; or, incongruity between what is expected and what actually occurs; or when a reader knows something a character does not know (situational, verbal, dramatic)

Juxtaposition

placing two elements side by side to present a comparison or contrast

Logos

Appeal to logic

Parallelism

The use of corresponding grammatical or syntactical forms

Parenthetical

a comment that interrupts the immediate subject, often to qualify or explain

Pathos

Appeal to emotion

Personification

endowing non-human objects or creatures with human qualities or characteristics

Reproachful

A tone that is critical or disapproving

Rhetoric

the art of presenting ideas in a clear, effective, and persuasive manner

Rhetorical Question

A question asked merely for rhetorical effect and not requiring an answer

Rhetorical Devices

literary techniques used to heighten the effectiveness of expression

Rhetorical Triangle

The relationship between the author, the audience, the text/message, and the context.

Sarcasm

harsh, cutting language or tone intended to ridicule

Satire

the use of humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to expose and criticize people's stupidity or vices, particularly in the context of contemporary politics and other topical issues.

Structure

the arrangement or framework of a sentence, paragraph, or entire work

Syllogism

A three-part deductive argument in which a conclusion is based on a major premise and a minor premise

Syntax

The arrangement of words and phrases to create well-formed sentences in a language.

Thesis

the primary position taken by a writer or speaker

Tone

The attitude of a writer, usually implied, toward the subject or audience