AP Lang Vocab 5

satire

a work that targets human vices and follies or social institutions and conventions for reform or ridicule

irony

use of a word in such a way as to convey a meaning opposite to the literal meaning of the word

paradox

an apparently contradictory statement that nevertheless contains a measure of truth

hyperbole

the use of exaggerated terms for the purpose of emphasis or heightened effect

understatement

a figure of speech in which something is expressed less strongly than would be expected, or in which something is presented as being smaller, worse, or lesser than it really is

sarcasm

a bitter, cutting, or mocking taunt used to denigrate a particular person, place, or thing

parody

a work that closely imitates the style or content of another with the specific aim of comedic effect and/or ridicule

caricature

a description that intends to exaggerate or distort, for comic effect or ridicule, a person’s distinctive physical features or other characteristics