Literary Terms Flashcards

Flashcard Definitions and Concepts

Diction

  • Definition: Writer’s word choice that shapes tone and meaning.

  • Importance of Diction: Variations in diction can set the mood of a piece, influence reader perception, and reflect character traits.

Didactic

  • Definition: Intended to teach or instruct, often moral lessons.

  • Application of Didactic: Commonly used in literature where authors aim to impart wisdom or ethical lessons through their narratives.

Emphasis

  • Definition: Special importance or focus placed on an idea.

  • Role of Emphasis in Writing: By emphasizing certain words or phrases, writers can guide the reader's attention to key themes or concepts.

Euphemism

  • Definition: Mild phrase replacing a harsh or unpleasant one.

  • Examples of Euphemisms: "Passed away" instead of "died"; "downsizing" instead of "firing employees".

  • Purpose of Euphemism: Often used to soften the impact of a harsh reality or to convey sensitivity about a subject.

Evaluate

  • Definition: To judge or determine the value of something.

  • Process of Evaluation: Involves critical thinking and analysis to assess the quality or significance of information, arguments, or artistic works.

Evidence

  • Definition: Facts or details supporting an argument or claim.

  • Types of Evidence: Can include statistics, expert testimony, real-life examples, or quotations from authoritative sources.

  • Role of Evidence: Critical in persuasive writing as it lends credibility and support to the argument presented.

Example/Illustration

  • Definition: Specific instance explaining or clarifying an idea.

  • Use of Examples: Helps readers understand abstract concepts by providing tangible references.

  • Illustration in Writing: A method for enhancing clarity and making arguments more relatable.

Exposition

  • Definition: Background information introducing characters, setting, or situation.

  • Purpose of Exposition: Establishes context for the narrative; helps to set up the plot and engage the reader.

Fallacies

  • Definition: Errors in reasoning that weaken an argument.

  • Common Types of Fallacies: Ad hominem, straw man, slippery slope, and hasty generalization.

  • Consequences of Fallacies: Can undermine the credibility of the speaker/writer and mislead the audience.

Figurative Language

  • Definition: Uses comparisons or imagery beyond literal meaning.

  • Examples of Figurative Language: Similes, metaphors, personification, and hyperbole.

  • Impact on Writing: Enriches the text, adds depth to the themes, and makes images more vivid for readers.

Flashback

  • Definition: A scene returning to an earlier event in time.

  • Purpose of Flashbacks: To provide background or context to the current situation, to add depth to characters' motivations, or to create suspense.

  • Example of Flashback Usage: Revealing a character’s childhood to explain their present behavior or decisions.