AP Lang and Comp vocab

rhetoric

the art of persuasive speaking or writing, often using figures of speech and compositional techniques.

exigence

a situation that prompts a writer or speaker to communicate, creating urgency for discourse.

anaphora

the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses or sentences, used for emphasis and rhythm.

absolutes

words or phrases that express totality, often used to create strong assertions in writing.

diction

the choice and use of words and phrases in speech or writing, influencing style and tone.

denotation

the literal or primary meaning of a word, distinct from its connotations or associated meanings.

connotation

the implied or associated meaning of a word, which can evoke emotional responses beyond its literal definition.

colloiqual

words or phrases characteristic of informal speech or writing, often specific to a particular region or group.

formal language

the style of language used in professional or academic settings, characterized by the use of full sentences, complex vocabulary, and proper grammar. It is often devoid of colloquialisms and slang.

informal language

the style of language used in casual or everyday conversation, often characterized by the use of contractions, slang, and colloquialisms.

jargon

specialized terminology used by a particular profession or group that may be difficult for outsiders to understand.

situational irony

a literary device where the outcome of a situation is incongruous with what was expected, often resulting in humor or surprise.

verbal irony

a figure of speech where the speaker's intended meaning is different from the literal meaning of their words, often used to convey sarcasm or humor.

mood

the emotional atmosphere of a literary work, created through setting, tone, and diction, that evokes specific feelings in the reader.

imagery

the use of vivid and descriptive language to create mental images, appealing to the senses and enhancing the reader's experience.

figurative language

the use of words or expressions with a meaning that is different from the literal interpretation, including similes, metaphors, and idioms, to convey concepts and emotions more vividly.

metaphor

a figure of speech that directly refers to one thing by mentioning another, helping to illustrate an idea or concept through comparison.

simile

a figure of speech that compares two different things using "like" or "as" to highlight similarities, enhancing imagery and understanding.

personification

the attribution of human characteristics or behaviors to non-human entities, objects, or abstract ideas, allowing for deeper emotional connection and comprehension.

understatement

a figure of speech in which a writer or speaker deliberately makes a situation seem less important or serious than it is, often for ironic or comedic effect.

hyperbole

a figure of speech that involves exaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken literally, used for emphasis or effect.