Key Vocabulary and Concepts for Exam Review

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary and concepts discussed in lecture notes, providing definitions and explanations necessary for exam preparation.

syllogism

A deductive system of formal logic presenting two premises (major and minor) that lead to a sound conclusion.

symbol

Anything that represents itself and stands for something else, often concrete objects representing abstract ideas.

synecdoche

A figure of speech in which a part signifies the whole.

rhetorical modes

Different kinds of writing with specific purposes, including exposition, argumentation, description, and narration.

sarcasm

Bitter, caustic language meant to ridicule or hurt someone or something.

satire

Writing that targets human vices for reform or ridicule, using devices like irony and humor.

semantics

The branch of linguistics that studies the meaning of words and their relations.

style

The sum of choices an author makes in blending diction, syntax, and literary devices.

subordinate clause

A clause that cannot stand alone; it depends on a main clause to complete its meaning.

topic sentence

A declarative statement that provides the controlling idea for a paragraph.

transition

A word or phrase that links different ideas, signaling a shift from one idea to another.

wit

Intellectually amusing language that surprises and delights; humorous and perceptive.

zeugma

A construction where a word applies to two or more nouns without being repeated.

rhetoric

From the Greek for “orator”, this term describes the principles governing the art of speaking or writing effectively, eloquently. and persuasively.

rhetorical devices

Words or phrases designed to create a particular effect in a story or drama or to evoke a particular response from the reader listener , or viewer.