Rhetorical Keystone Vocab

Argument

The course of reasoning used to prove something true or false.

Definition

The literal meaning of a word or phrase.

Pathos

A method of persuasion based on an appeal to the emotions of the intended audience.

Logos

A method of persuasion that uses logic, reasoning, and rationality to present ideas.

Ethos

A method of persuasion based on the credibility or character of the speaker.

Narration

Recounting or telling a series of events, often in chronological order.

Description

A specific representation of a person, object, place, or event.

Division/Classification

Breaking down a large topic into smaller sections for better understanding.

Contrast/Comparison

Identifying similarities or differences between two different topics.

Cause/Effect

The direct relationship between an event and its consequences.

Exposition

Introduction of the character, setting, and other basic information.

Example

A particular instance of something that represents a person, object, or idea.

Process

An explanation of how something is done or works.

Diction

The word choice or phrasing in a written piece.

Syntax

The arrangement of words in a sentence to convey meaning.

Tone

The attitude of the writer towards the subject or audience through various elements.

Organization

The pattern in which ideas are presented to the reader.

Point of View

The perspective of the narrator or character that determines the audience's experience.

Alliteration

When words that begin with the same sound are placed closely together.

Allusion

A reference to a real or fictional place, person, or object.

Analogy

When two unrelated topics are compared for an argument.

Antithesis

A pair of statements that are opposites.

Apostrophe

When the speaker addresses a person who is not present.

Hyperbole

An exaggeration used for emphasis or humor.

Metaphor

A figurative, nonliteral comparison of two unrelated things.

Metonymy

A figurative method where one word is replaced with another to represent it.

Onomatopoeia

Words whose pronunciations imitate sounds that cannot be put into words.

Oxymoron

A sentence or phrase that combines contradicting terms.

Parallelism

When sentences or phrases have similar structure.

Personification

Applying human characteristics to inanimate objects for exaggeration and interest.

Rhetorical Question

A question asked without the intention of receiving an answer to make a point.

Simile

A comparison of two different things using "like" or "as."

Understatement

Presenting a situation as less serious than it actually is.

Epithet

Special nicknames that replace the name of a character or object, often with meaning.