Rhetorical Terms

Repetition

A word, phrase or structure is used multiple times.

Anaphora

Repetition at the beginning of two or more sentences or clauses in a row.

Epistrophe

Repetition at the end of successive clauses or sentences.

Aphorism

Short and memorable statement that expresses a general truth.

Euphemism

A less offensive term to substitute for an unpleasant one.

Parenthetical Idea

Separate an idea from the rest of a sentence.

Hyperbole

Deliberate exaggeration for emphasis or effect.

Idiom

Common phrase where overall meaning is different from the literal meaning.

Metonymy

The replacing of an actual word or idea with a substitute/related word or concept.

Polysyndeton

Involves the repetition of conjunctions to link ideas in a list or clause.

Invective

Long, emotionally violent attack using strong, abusive language.

Concession

A rhetorical device where the speaker acknowledges an opposing argument or point of view.

Rhetorical Question

Question not asked for information but for effect.

Imagery

Words that create a picture in the reader's mind.

Diction

Word choice that affects style and meaning.

Symbol

Something that represents a deeper meaning beyond its literal meaning to connect normal things to ideas.

Allegory

A story, poem or picture that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning, typically moral or political.

Anecdote

A brief personal story or narrative.

Analogy

Figure of speech that creates a comparison of unlike things that are alike to prove a larger point.

Allusion

Indirect reference to something that the author assumes their audience is familiar with.

Metaphor

Making a comparison between two unlike things by stating one thing is the other.

Simile

Making a comparison of two unlike things using like or as.

Oxymoron

Put two opposite or contradictory words together to create a new or impactful meaning or effect.

Juxtaposition

Placing multiple things side by side to compare or contrast to make a point or tension.

Paradox

Statement that appears to contradict itself but may reveal a deeper meaning or insight.

Situational Irony

Where the opposite of what was expected to happen occurs, resulting in a surprising effect.

Verbal Irony

Says the opposite of what they mean, often used for humor or sarcasm.

Satire

Uses humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize flaws in society, behavior, or beliefs.

Ethos

Appeal to credibility or authority using character, experience, reliability, or shared values.

Pathos

Appeal to emotion to connect with the audience on a personal level.

Logos

Appeal to logic and reason.