English Language techniques

Simile

A comparison made without using 'like' or 'as'.

Metaphor

A comparison made without using 'like' or 'as'.

Personification

A type of imagery in which non-human objects, animals or ideas are given human characteristics

Motif

Any repeated idea, theme or image that has a symbolic significance in the text.

Repetition

Words, phrases or ideas are repeated for effect.

Listing

A number of connected items written one after the other.

Alliteration

The repetition of the same sounds (mainly consonants) usually at the beginning of words.

Onomatopoeia

The sounds of words to express or underline their meaning.

Emotive language

Language is used to create a strong emotional response

Hyperbole

An exaggerated statement, not meant to be taken literally, but used to create a dramatic effect.

Oxymoron

When two contrasting ideas are combined for dramatic effect or to create a comedic effect.

Pathetic fallacy

when a writer gives human emotions to things that are not human

Imagery

descriptive language used to create visual images in the reader's mind,

Paradox

a statement that contradicts itself

Narrative viewpoint

the perspective from which a story is told (omniscient narrator)

Structure

Journey, telescoping, chonology

5 senses

Sight, taste, touch, sound, smell

Symbolism

The use of symbols to represent an idea

Mood and atmosphere

The ambience of the piece of writing