rhetoric vocab

allusion

A figure of speech that makes a brief reference to a historical or literary figure, event, or object; a reference in one literary work to a character or theme found in another literary work.

ambiguity

The expression of an idea in language that gives more than one meaning and leaves uncertainty as to the meaning

analogy

The comparison of two things that are alike in several respects, to explain or clarify some unfamiliar or difficult idea or object by showing how the idea or object is similar to some familiar ones 

antithesis

A figure of speech in which a thought is balanced with a contrasting thought in parallel arrangements of words and phrases

metaphor

A figure of speech wherein a comparison is made between two unlike quantities without the use of the words “like” or “as”

rhetoric

The art of speaking or writing effectively and/or persuasively; skill in the eloquent use of language

rhetorical devices

Linguistic tools or patterns of expression used to achieve a particular effect or purpose in writing or speech. These devices are employed by writers and speakers to create emphasis, evoke emotions, and persuade or engage the audience 

rhetorical question

A question solely for effect, with no answer expected. By the implication that the answer is obvious, it is a means of achieving an emphasis stronger than a direct statement

alliteration

The repetition of initial consonant sounds in words or phrases can create a rhythmic and memorable effect, enhancing the persuasiveness of the message

figurative language

Writing or speech not meant to be taken in a literal way. A figure of speech; it states something that is not true to create an effect

hyperbole

An exaggeration for effect and emphasis, overstatement; a figure of speech in which an overstatement or exaggeration occurs

repetition

Consists of repeating a word, phrase, or sentence, and is common in both poetry and prose. It is a rhetorical technique to add emphasis, unity, and/or power

parallelism

The use of repeating words and forms to create patterns and rhythm in a passage. It can juxtapose contrasting images or ideas to highlight their differences or join similar concepts to emphasize their connection. This technique adds symmetry, rhythm, and clarity, making complex ideas more accessible and memorable

cliche

A cliche is a saying, idea, or element of an artistic work that is overused in a culture to the point of losing its original, more significant meaning. 

rhetorical appeals

The modes of persuasion, often referred to as ethical strategies, are devices in rhetoric that classify the speaker’s appeal to the audience. They are ethos, pathos, and logos

ethos

The credibility or ethical appeal of the speaker or writer. It involves establishing trust with the audience by demonstrating expertise, authority, or good moral character

pathos

Pathos is the emotional appeal that aims to evoke feelings in the audience. It involves using language and examples that elicit an emotional response, creating a connection with the audience on a personal or empathetic level

logos

Logos is the logical appeal that relies on reason, facts, and evidence to support an argument. It involves presenting a clear, well-organized, and reasoned case to persuade the audience.

kairos

The appeal to timeliness or appropriateness; showing why something matters right now

tone

In literature, the tone is the attitude or approach that the author takes toward the work’s central theme or subject 

mood

A literary element that evokes certain feelings or vibes in readers through words and descriptions

imagery

Visually descriptive or figurative language, especially in a literary work

call to action

Words that urge the reader, listener, or viewer to take immediate action

anecdote

A short and often amusing or interesting story about a real incident or person. It is typically a brief narrative that highlights a particular event or experience, often to illustrate a point, make a connection with the audience, or provide an example to support an argument

anaphora

Repetition of the same word or phrase at the beginning of successive sentences, lines, or clauses. Purpose: emphasizes a point, creates rhythm, and reinforces a theme or emotional impact

diction

The author’s or speaker’s choice of words focuses on what words are used and why

syntax

The arrangement of words and phrases to create sentences. Focuses on how words are put together rather than the words themselves

irony

When the intended meaning is opposite to the literal meaning, it can create emphasis or humor

juxtaposition

Placing two contrasting ideas close together to highlight differences or create impact 

understatement

Presenting something as smaller or less significant than it really is, often for ironic or emphatic effect

concession/counterargument

Acknowledging an opposing viewpoint to strengthen your own argument