Ap Lang Vocab Words Week 1 & 2

simile

An explicit figure of speech that is the comparison between two essentially unlike things, usually using the words “like or as”, which points out a figurative (KP Essential) way that two things are alike.

Metaphor

A figure of speech in which one ting is described in terms of another using an implied comparison, without the use of “like” or “as”.

Personification

A figure of speech in which an inanimate object is given human qualities or abilities.

Parallelism/Parallel Structure

A rhetorical device or sentence construction which involves using matching grammatical patterns to establish the equivalent relationship or importance of two or more items. Provides balance and authority (KP Essential) to sentences.

Ironic

Using words to convey a meaning that is the opposite of its literal meaning.

Ironically

Pertaining to, exhibiting, or characterized by mockery

Irony

(KP Essential) Involves the perception that things are not what they are said to be or what they seem.

Synopsis

A brief summary of the major points of a thesis, theory, story, or literary work; an abstract

Satire, Lampoon, Parody

A work that ridicules human vices, follies and foibles; comic criticism.

Satirize, Lampoon, Parody

to ridicule or mock, often sarcastically (KP Essential)

Hyperbole

A figure of speech in which exaggeration is used for emphasis or effect; extreme exaggeration.

Caricature

Visual art or descriptive writing that deliberately exaggerates distinctive features or peculiarities of a subject for comic or absurd effect.

Epic

A long narrative poem written in a grand style to celebrate the feats of a legendary hero.

Saga

A long narrative story; a heroic tale.

Foreshadowing

A suggestion or indication that something will happen in a story; a hint that presages (KP Advanced).

Anecdote

A short account of an interesting or humorous incident.

Eulogy

A laudatory speech or written tribute, especiallt one praising someone who has died.

Allusion

An indirect or brief reference to a person, event, place, phrase, piece of art, or literary work that assumes a common knowledge with the reader or listener.

Analogy

A similarity or likeness between things—events, ideas, actions, trends—that are otherwise unrelated.

Analogous

Comparable or similar in certain respects.

Wistful

Longing and yearning, tinged with melancholy (KP essential) and pensiveness

Earnest, Sincere

Serious in intention or purpose; showing depth and genuine feelings.

Disgruntled, discontented

Angry; dissatisfied; annoyed; impatient; irritated.

Authoritative

Commanding and self confident; likely to be respected and obeyed, based on competent authority (KP Essential)

Frivolity

The trait of being frivolous; not serious or sensible

frivolous

Lacking any serious purpose or value; given to trifling or levity.

Acerbic, Acrid

Harsh, bitter, sharp, caustic (KP Advanced).

Solemn, Somber

Not cheerful or smiling; serious; gloomy.

Inquisitive

Curious; inquiring

Reflective, Pensive

Engaged in, involving, or reflecting deep or serious thought, usually marked by sadness or melancholy (KP Essential).

Equivocal

Ambiguous, open to interpretation, having several equally possible meanings.

Equivocate

To avoid making an explicit statement; to hedge ; to use vague or ambiguous language.

Deferential

Respectful; dutiful

Ebullient, Euphoric

Feeling or expressing great happiness or triumph; elated.