Argument Techniques English 2026

Anecdotes

Provides a real-life incident to support a case and makes the story more believable.

Attacks

Displays faults of the opposition so the audience can realise and separate themselves from them.

Clichés

Helps the reader feel familiar with the material and conveys meaning economically.

Connotations

Adds extra meaning and force, influencing the audience's judgement.

Emotive Language

Emotionally manipulates the reader to agree and shows the writer cares.

Evidence

Improves the validity and authority of an argument by providing factual support.

Inclusive Pronouns

Engages the audience through a friendly tone and creates a sense of togetherness.

Metaphor

Creates a graphic image in the reader's mind, making the point more striking and understandable.

Expert Opinion

Adds authority and substance to an argument by showing the writer has credible support.

Hyperbole

Makes an issue seem more important or dramatic, shocks the reader and encourages them to act.

Puns

Keeps the reader interested and engaged.

Reason and Logic

Presents logical reasons why one side is more convincing by acknowledging both sides.

Repetition

Strengthens and emphasises a point, making it stick in the reader's mind.

Rhetorical Questions

Engages the audience and encourages them to agree with the implied answer.

Tone

Reflects the writer's attitudes or emotions and can signal a change in direction.

Adjectives

Helps the reader picture and understand something by creating imagery.

Direct Address

Makes the audience feel involved and helps them build an opinion.

Exclusive Pronouns

Isolates a person or subject, such as 'you'.

Humour/Irony

Softens the mood of a serious topic so the reader remains engaged.

Imperatives

Uses commanding verbs to give no choice and establish the writer's authority.

Informal/Colloquial Language

Creates a chatty, friendly tone that makes the reader feel personally connected to the writer.

Lists

Makes the reader trust the writer by suggesting they have considered everything.

Modal Verbs

Gives the reader choice and more subtle advice, reducing the writer's authority.

Opinions

Presents a viewpoint that engages the reader and triggers an idea or response.

Rhythm and Rhyme

Creates a pleasant, natural flow that can feel hypnotic and persuasive.

Semantic Field

Reinforces the message through related words and ideas.

Simile

Helps the reader picture and understand something by comparing it to something familiar.