AP® English Language & Composition Study Guide

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms essential for understanding AP® English Language and Composition concepts.

Rhetoric

The art of effective or persuasive speaking or writing, especially the use of figures of speech and other compositional techniques.

Main Idea

Refers to the content of the passage, answering the question 'What is this passage about?'.

Purpose

Related to Main Idea, but answers the question 'What does the speaker hope to accomplish through the main idea?'.

Tone

Refers to the author's attitude about their subject, which affects the audience's perception.

Rhetorical Analysis

An essay task that requires explaining how an author’s use of rhetorical choices impacts the audience to achieve a specified purpose or effect.

Claim

A statement in an argument that asserts something to be true.

Evidence

The specific examples or data that a writer uses to support a claim.

Line of Reasoning

The organization and rationale behind the central claim, supporting claims, and evidence within an argument.

Diction

Distinctive vocabulary choices and style of expression used by an author or speaker.

Denotation

The dictionary definition of a word.

Connotation

The feelings or associations that a word evokes beyond its literal definition.

Qualifying Language

Words used to express the degree of certainty or uncertainty in an argument.

Imagery

Descriptive language that appeals to the physical senses to create vivid mental pictures.

Thesis Statement

A clear, direct statement that outlines the main argument or point of an essay.

Synthesis

The process of combining ideas from multiple sources to form a coherent argument.

Counter-Argument

An opposing viewpoint to the main argument which can strengthen one's own position when addressed.

Sophistication

A measure of the complexity and depth of thought in an argument or essay.

Ethos

An appeal to credibility or character, establishing trust with the audience.

Logos

An appeal to logic or reason, utilizing data and facts to support an argument.

Pathos

An emotional appeal intended to evoke feelings in the audience.

Exigence

The issue, problem, or situation that prompts a writer to create a text.