AP Lang — Unit 2 Vocab

Allude/Allusion

To make an indirect reference to a person, event, or text (often historical, literary, or cultural). 

Analogy

A comparison between two unlike things that highlights a shared similarity, often used to explain or clarify. 

Anecdote

A short, personal story told to illustrate a point or engage the audience. 

Audience

The intended readers, listeners, or viewers that a speaker or writer is addressing.

Complexity

The presence of multiple layers, perspectives, or nuances in an idea, text, or argument. 

Exigence

The issue, problem, or situation that prompts someone to write or speak.

Hyperbole

A deliberate exaggeration for emphasis or effect.

Imagery

Descriptive language that appeals to the five senses (sight, sound, smell, taste, touch). 

Imply/Implication

To suggest or hint at a meaning without stating it directly.

Infer/Inference

To draw a logical conclusion based on evidence and reasoning.

Irony

A contrast between expectation and reality; when what is said, done or happens is opposite of what is meant or expected. 

Juxtapose/Juxtaposition

To place two ideas, images, or things side by side for the purpose of comparison or contrast.

Line of reasoning

The logical sequence of claims and evidence that builds an argument.

Occasion

The specific time, place, and context in which a text is created.

Paradox

A statement that seems self-contradictory but reveals a deeper truth.

Purpose

The writer’s or speaker’s goal: what they want the audience to think, feel or do.

Rhetorical choice

The specific strategies, techniques, or devices an author uses to achieve their purpose. 

Rhetorical question

A question posed not to elicit an answer but to emphasize a point or provoke a thought. 

Rhetorical situation

The context of a text: speaker, audience, purpose, exigence, and occasion.

Speaker

The voice behind the text; the persona presenting the message.

Tension

A sense of conflict, struggle, or opposing forces within a text that creates interest.

Tone

The writer’s or speaker’s attitude toward the subject or audience, conveyed through word choice and style. 

Understate/Understatement

Presenting something as smaller, less important, or less serious than it actually is, often for ironic or humorous effect.