A.P. Lang Summer Vocab (Literary and Stylistic terms which are useful for discussion of style)

Colloquialism

A word or phrase that is not formal or literary, typically one using an ordinary or familiar conversation; slang, used by a specific people or in a specific geographical location

Connotation

An idea or feeling that a word invokes in addition to its literal or primary meaning

Deductive Argument

An argument where the author presents a logically valid argument and then uses evidence ( observations, examples, premises) to prove that argument

Denotation

The literal or primary meaning of a word

Diction

The choice and use of words and phrases in speech or writing

Didactic

Intended to teach, particularly in having moral instruction as an ulterior motive or in a patronizing way

Ellipsis

A punctuation of three dots to indicate a pause

Equivocation

The use of ambiguous language to conceal the truth or avoid committing oneself; prevarication

Euphemism

A mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh or blunt when referring to something unpleasant or embarrassing

Hyperbole

An exaggeration made for emphasis

Inductive Argument

An argument where the author presents their evidence (observations, examples, generalizations) first and builds to stating their argument/conclusion at the end after their evidence

Juxtaposition

The physical arrangement of two things that force a comparison

Non sequitur

Latin for "it does not follow." A statement (such as a response). That does not follow logically from or is not clearly related to anything previously stated

Pedantic

An adjective that describes words, phrases, or general tone that is overly scholarly, academic, or bookish

Polemic

A strong verbal or written attack on someone or something

Polysyndeton

A stylistic device in which several coordinating conjunctions are used in succession

Sarcasm

The use of irony to mock or convey contempt

Syntax

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

Tone

The author's attitude towards a writing/work

Understatement

The presentation of something as being smaller, worse, or less important than it actually is

Discourse

To talk or write about a subject; an exchange of ideas, especially in a conversation

Concession

The act of conceding or yielding; accepting something is right/true or acknowledging defeat